Deep learning-assisted screening and diagnosis of scoliosis: segmentation of bare-back images via an attention-enhanced convolutional neural network

BackgroundTraditional diagnostic tools for scoliosis screening necessitate a substantial number of specialized personnel and equipment, leading to inconvenience that can result in missed opportunities for early diagnosis and optimal treatment. We have developed a deep learning-based image segmentation model to enhance the efficiency of scoliosis screening.MethodsA total of 350 patients with scoliosis and 108 healthy subjects were included in this study. The dataset was created using their bare back images and standing full-length anteroposterior spinal X-rays. An attention mechanism was incorporated into the original U-Net architecture to build a Dual AttentionUNet model for image segmentation. The entire dataset was divided into the training (321 cases), validation (46 cases), and test (91 cases) sets in a 7:1:2 ratio. The training set was used to train the Dual AttentionUNet model, and the validation set was used to fine-tune hyperparameters and prevent overfitting during training. The performance of the model was evaluated in the test set. After automatic segmentation of the back contour, a back asymmetry index was calculated via computer vision algorithms to classify scoliosis into different severities. The accuracy of classifications was statistically compared to those of three clinical experts.ResultsFollowing the segmentation of bare back images and the application of computer vision algorithms, the Dual AttentionUNet model achieved an accuracy, precision, and recall rate of over 90% in predicting severe scoliosis. Notably, the model achieved an AUC value of 0.93 in identifying whether the subjects had scoliosis, which was higher than the 0.92 achieved by the deputy chief physician. In identifying severe scoliosis, their AUC values were 0.95 and 0.96, respectively.ConclusionThe Dual AttentionUNet model, based on only bare back images, achieved accuracy and precision comparable to clinical physicians in determining scoliosis severity. Radiation-free, cost-saving, easy-to-operate and noninvasive, this model provides a novel option for large-scale scoliosis screening.