Revolutionizing Radiology: Moscow Scientists Introduce AI-Powered X-Ray Quality Control Software

Moscow scientists have innovatively engineered software utilizing artificial intelligence to enhance the precision of chest X-ray examinations, marking a significant advancement in radiological quality control. The Senior Consultant for Radiology, CEO of the Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine, Yuri Vasiliev, elucidated that this software empowers physicians to vigilantly oversee the actions of X-ray technicians.

Yuri  Vasiliev emphasized the Moscow Department of Health’s commitment to upholding a meticulous standard of study quality. He explained that the developed software not only scrutinizes metadata completeness but also verifies its accuracy by cross-referencing it with the corresponding X-ray tests. A fully functional quality control module for chest X-ray examinations has been meticulously implemented, tested, and is now poised for practical application. This module facilitates scrutiny of projection type, adequacy of lung coverage, and image orientation.

During diagnostic imaging procedures, technical errors may arise. These errors can stem from various sources, such as incorrect settings of the diagnostic device, inaccurate scanning modes, improper selection of projections, or failure to adhere to the radiologist’s instructions. Patient positioning errors also negatively impact study quality and increase the likelihood of missing pathologies, as some parts of the investigated organ may fall outside the digital image. While human radiologists may overlook these technical errors, AI-based software is more susceptible to incorrect study metadata, which can lead to erroneous operations.

This groundbreaking initiative was undertaken as part of the initial  phase of research supported by the Moscow Center for Innovative Technologies in Healthcare. Vyacheslav Shulenin, Head of the Moscow Center for Innovative Technologies in Healthcare, expressed confidence in the transformative impact of artificial intelligence and big data analysis on the healthcare landscape. He anticipates that the developed software will significantly elevate the precision of tests, fostering faster and more accurate diagnoses.

Over the past decade, Moscow has been actively spearheading the digitalization of its healthcare system. Since 2020, a pioneering experiment incorporating neural networks has been underway, integrating computer vision technologies into the operations of metropolitan medical institutions. Supported by the Department of Information Technology, this initiative operates from the Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine, serving as a pivotal platform for the advancement of artificial intelligence technologies in Russia.

The Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine of the Moscow Health Department, established in 1996, stands as a preeminent scientific and practical organization within the Social Development Complex of the Moscow City Hall. Specializing in the integration of artificial intelligence in medicine, radiation diagnostics development, organizational structuring of medical departments, scientific research, and medical staff education, it remains at the forefront of pioneering advancements in healthcare technology.