Artificial intelligence detects brain tumor residues within 10 seconds, improving the precision of operations.
A major medical breakthrough : thanks to artificial intelligence (AI), surgeons can now detect in just 10 seconds the remains of brain tumors which are often difficult to spot during an operation. Published in the prestigious journal Naturethis innovation promises to transform neurosurgery by making operations safer and more precise. This is how theAI detects brain cancer tumors in seconds;
AI at the heart of a new surgical approach
This advance is based on an artificial intelligence model capable of guiding surgeons in real time.
« This AI could change the way surgeons approach brain tumor surgery by instantly detecting residual tumor cells », explains Dr. Todd Hollonneurosurgeon and researcher.
With this model, neurosurgeons can ensure that more cancer cells are removed, thereby improving the chances of cure and reducing the risk of recurrence for patients.
Why is tumor residue detection crucial?
During an operation, it is often very difficult to distinguish cancer cells from healthy brain tissue, especially when the tumor is large and diffuse. This remaining portion, called residual tumoris the main cause of recurrences. Traditionally, surgeons use tools like intraoperative MRI or fluorescent agents to spot cancer cells, but these methods are often expensive, complex and not easily accessible. Artificial intelligence, on the other hand, offers a fast, affordable and highly accurate solution, with a detection rate of 92 % residual tumor cells.
How does AI identify Cancer cells in 10 seconds?
This cutting-edge technology combines AI with an innovative imaging method, called Raman stimulated histologywhich allows tumor cells to be visualized in high resolution. The AI was trained on thousands of brain tissue images to learn how to recognize cancer cells. In just 10 secondsthis AI system can detect which cells are still present in the patient’s brain during surgery, thereby informing surgeons if it is necessary to continue the operation to achieve optimal results.
Tests of this AI have shown a significant reduction in tumor residues unintentionally left in place: only 3.8% of cases of error, against 25 % with traditional methods, a remarkable advance for neurosurgery.
What are the benefits for patients and surgeons?
The rates of tumor residue after neurosurgery have barely changed over the last decades, which has a serious impact on the quality of life of patients and their chances of recovery. By providing surgeons with the ability to detect tumor cells more effectively, AI could improve surgical success rates, reduce long-term complications and lower treatment costs for the healthcare system.
AI and Cancer Treatment: a revolution in progress
The potential of this AI is not limited to brain tumors. According to Dr. Aditya S. Pandeyone of the study’s researchers, this technology could also be used to detect other types of cancerssuch as those of the lungs, prostate and breast.
« AI opens up incredible perspectives for the diagnosis and treatment of cancers by offering rapid and accessible detection », underlines Dr. Aditya S. Pandey.
Towards a new era of neurosurgery and oncology
Thanks to this artificial intelligence and AI that detects brain tumors in secondsthe brain tumor surgery could become safer, more accurate and more accessible, even in hospitals where heavy equipment like intra-operative MRI is not available. AI is thus emerging as an essential ally for surgical teams and a promising tool for the future of medicine and oncology.
Sophie Madoun
