Evaluating AI-based nodal contouring in head and neck cancer

A new study evaluates an artificial intelligence (AI)-based algorithm for autocontouring prior to radiotherapy in head and neck cancer. Manual contouring to pinpoint the area of treatment requires significant time, and an AI algorithm to enable autocontouring has been introduced.  The study is published in the peer-reviewed journal AI in Precision Oncology. Click here to read the article now. 

Sushil Beriwal, from Allegheny Health Network, and Varian, and coauthors, analyzed 108 patients with head and neck cancers. The automated nodal contours were evaluated using a 4-point scale: a score of 4 was clinically usable with no edits; a score of 3 required minor edits; a score of 2 required major edits; and a score of 1 required complete re-contouring of the region.”

The mean score for autocontouring was 3.56 +/- .40.

“Overall, the AI segmented autocontouring performed well with significant time saving and were clinically usable with no or minor edits the majority of times,” concluded the investigators.”

“The recent findings underscore the efficiency and reliability of AI in enhancing radiotherapy planning for head and neck cancer. With autocontouring algorithms demonstrating clinically usable results in the majority of cases, we’re at the brink of a major shift in treatment preparation. This advancement not only promises significant time savings for healthcare professionals but also opens the door to potentially more precise and patient-specific treatments. As we move forward, the integration of AI into oncological care represents a pivotal step towards more streamlined and effective patient care,” says Douglas Flora, MD, Editor-in-Chief of AI in Precision Oncology. 

About the Journal
AI in Precision Oncology is the only peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the advancement of artificial intelligence applications in clinical and precision oncology. Spearheaded by Editor-in-Chief Douglas Flora, MD and supported by a diverse and accomplished team of international experts, the Journal provides a high-profile forum for cutting-edge research and frontmatter highlighting important research and industry-related advances rapidly developing within the field. For complete information, visit the AI in Precision Oncology website.

About the Publisher
Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. is a global media company dedicated to creating, curating, and delivering impactful peer-reviewed research and authoritative content services to advance the fields of biotechnology and the life sciences, specialized clinical medicine, and public health and policy. For complete information, please visit the Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. website.