AI spots difficult-to-detect structural joint changes on X-ray exams

A new deep learning algorithm can help radiologists and other doctors spot a difficult-to-detect joint condition in patients with chronic back pain. 

Axial spondyloarthritis (SpA) involves structural changes in sacroiliac joints and can affect the spine, skin, intestines and eyes. Many will go on to suffer spinal fusion, which means providers must be sure to correctly diagnose joint changes on X-ray exams. An MRI is typically ordered if they’re unsure.

But researchers overseas found their neural network is highly accurate at spotting radiographic sacroiliitis, they reported during the…