GE HealthCare Launches AI-Powered CleaRecon DL to Enhance CBCT Image Quality in Interventional Procedures

What You Should Know: 

– GE HealthCare today announced the launch of CleaRecon DL, an innovative technology driven by a deep-learning algorithm, designed to significantly improve the quality of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. 

– The artificial intelligence (AI)-powered solution aims to eliminate streak artifacts that can impair image clarity during complex interventional procedures.

– CleaRecon DL, which recently received U.S. FDA 510(k) clearance and CE mark, will be available for use on GE HealthCare’s Allia platform. It is specifically designed to enhance imaging in liver, prostate, neuro, and endovascular aortic repair procedures.

Overcoming Challenges in CBCT Imaging

Cone-beam CT is a valuable tool in interventional suites, providing crucial cross-sectional imaging during medical procedures. However, the quality of reconstructed CBCT images can often be diminished by artifacts stemming from factors like the pulsatile nature of blood flow in arteries or changes in contrast distribution during image acquisition. 

These artifacts can reduce image clarity and accuracy, potentially impacting clinicians’ confidence in interpreting CBCT images and hindering its broader adoption in routine clinical practice. Despite these challenges, CBCT remains vital for its ability to offer comprehensive visualization of anatomical structures, which can enhance procedural accuracy.

AI-Driven Clarity for Greater Precision

CleaRecon DL utilizes advanced deep-learning algorithms to process and reconstruct CBCT images, specifically targeting and removing the problematic streak artifacts. Deep learning, a state-of-the-art AI technique for image processing, is trained using population-representative data and undergoes thorough testing with clinical domain experts.

“The introduction of CleaRecon DL represents a leap forward in the interventional suite and for the advancement of CBCT,” said Arnaud Marie, General Manager, Interventional Solutions at GE HealthCare. “By improving image quality and reducing artifacts, this technology can empower clinicians to perform procedures with greater precision and confidence. This solution builds on our portfolio of tools aimed at improving the user experience and workflow efficiency, enabling clinicians to deliver more accurate and effective interventions for enhanced patient outcomes.”

Validated Performance and Clinical Confidence

The efficacy of CleaRecon DL has been demonstrated through clinical validation testing. A recent survey highlighted that in 98% of cases, CBCT images reconstructed with CleaRecon DL were perceived as clearer than conventional CBCT images. Furthermore, the technology was shown to improve confidence in CBCT image interpretation in 94% of cases.

Dr. Charles Nutting, an Interventional Radiologist at Image Guided Therapy in Denver, Colorado, commented on the advancement: “CleaRecon DL takes CBCT to the next level, enabling clinicians to confidently use CBCT on patients with tools that help us provide the highest quality imaging and treatment across a wide range of clinical scenarios. This advancement improves our ability to perform precise interventions, with less manipulation of the image and eliminates artifacts that have historically hindered image clarity, ultimately helping improve the care clinicians can provide to patients.”

CleaRecon DL is now available for healthcare providers in the United States and the European Union, promising to enhance the capabilities of interventional teams and support better patient care.