This AI analyzes placentas to predict complications in the next pregnancy
This AI analyzes placentas to predict complications in the next pregnancy works
How the system works
The team trained their algorithm to spot the diseased lesions by feeding it images of placenta samples.
It first detects all the blood vessels in the image, and then determines whether each individual vessel is healthy or not. The algorithm also weighs up different features of the pregnancy, such as the gestational age and any conditions the mother has. If the system detects any abnormalities, it marks the placenta as diseased.
In testing, the algorithm classified the lesionsmore accuratelythan professional pathologists.
However, the researchers don’t expect the system to replace medical professionals. Instead, they want it to flag up regions where pathologists should take a closer look. Ultimately, they hope it will decrease the cost of the examination, opening up access to more mothers and their babies.
You can read thefull research paperfor free in The American Journal of Pathology.
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Story byThomas Macaulay
Thomas is a senior reporter at TNW. He covers European tech, with a focus on AI, cybersecurity, and government policy.Thomas is a senior reporter at TNW. He covers European tech, with a focus on AI, cybersecurity, and government policy.
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