GE Healthcare Partners with Fujitsu to Develop AI for Spotting Brain Aneurysms

GE Healthcare (Chicago, IL, USA) has entered into a research collaboration with Fujitsu Australia (Tokyo, Japan) to diagnose and monitor brain aneurysms on scans faster and more efficiently by using artificial intelligence (AI). The project has already received a Cooperative Research Centres Projects (CRC-P) grant of AUD 2.1 million from the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science.

Fujitsu will lead the initiative and leverage its AI and digital solutions capability through its dedicated innovation team in Australia. GE Healthcare will contribute through its leading medical imaging technology. Fujitsu will apply AI methods to images of the brain generated by GE’s Revolution CT scanner, and use a specifically trained algorithm to look for abnormalities and aneurysms. Macquarie University and Macquarie Medical Imaging will provide clinical expertise for the development and testing of the technology. Initially the project will focus on refining the technology with a view to creating a fully commercialized solution that will be distributed initially through radiology practices in Australia and eventually on a worldwide basis.

The outcomes from this project are anticipated to include the development and validation of an AI algorithm capable of highlighting blood vessels within the circle of Willis, an arterial ring sited at the base of the brain that may have one or more aneurysms. This technology will also allow the tracking of identified aneurysms over time, providing radiologists with a valuable diagnostic support tool and patients with greater peace of mind that known aneurysms are being effectively monitored over the long-term. A second element to the project will include a planning tool for surgical (stent) intervention. This tool will use fluid dynamic modeling to predict the risk of aneurysm rupture.

“We are pleased to be part of this important ‘co-creation’ initiative that leverages the strengths of each of our partners, as well as Fujitsu’s experience in AI to have a positive impact on peoples’ lives,” said Mike Foster, Chief Executive Officer of Fujitsu Australia and New Zealand. “AI in particular has the capability to make our daily lives more comfortable and contribute to solving difficult problems such as detecting serious medical issues early and allowing more timely treatment intervention. This is an excellent demonstration of Fujitsu’s commitment to creating human-centric innovation together with our customers and partners to build a trusted future where everyone can feel safe.”

“As the consequences of brain aneurysm rupture are often fatal, effective and expedient detection is crucial. Unfortunately screening and monitoring takes time and specialist expertise not afforded by every radiology practice,” said Matt Tucker, President and CEO GE Healthcare Australia & New Zealand. “The application of AI can give doctors better insights more quickly and produce fewer variable results. We are proud to be part of this program that will transform brain aneurysm diagnosis and improve patient outcomes.”

“This is an excellent example of the MQ Health model of “Heal, Learn and Discover” in action with industry. Macquarie University, with its own hospital and clinical expertise is well placed to actively contribute to the development of applied medical innovations and welcomes the opportunity to work with leading information technology, healthcare and diagnostic companies such as Fujitsu, GE Healthcare and Macquarie Medical Imaging,” said Professor Patrick McNeil, Deputy Vice Chancellor Medicine and Health and Executive Dean, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University.