Artificial intelligence software contributes to early detection of breast cancer in Dresden Radiology

The University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden has taken a significant step forward in the fight against breast cancer with the implementation of AI-based software, "Transpara", in November 2023. This marks the first time such technology has been used in the Dresden region, revolutionising the radiology department's approach to mammography.

Breast cancer, or mammary carcinoma, is the most common malignant tumour in women in Germany. Statistically, one in eight women is affected by breast cancer during her lifetime, with around 70,000 new cases diagnosed annually. Early detection is crucial for increasing survival chances, and the use of AI-based software like "Transpara" is hoped to make a significant difference.

Prof. Ralf-Thorsten Hoffmann, head of the Institute and Policlinic for Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, describes "Transpara" as a 'second pair of eyes' for radiologists. The software reliably detects the smallest nodes and calcifications in mammography images, providing a faster and more efficient means of analysis.

Reducing false diagnoses is a key focus in the development of AI for breast cancer detection. The AI-based software "Transpara" compares the images with a database of over five million pictures, ensuring a high level of accuracy. Prof. Michael Albrecht, Medical Director of the University Hospital, emphasises that the examination using AI provides additional security and will develop into the standard in diagnostics in the future.

The future development of artificial intelligence is also hoped for in breast cancer detection. Prof. Albrecht believes that the software will become even more effective as it learns and adapts, particularly in recognising the different breast density of women, which should receive more attention in future iterations of the AI software.

The use of AI-based software "Transpara" not only saves time and personnel resources at the University Hospital but also contributes to the hospital's goal of achieving faster and more reliable breast cancer detection. The software is used as one building block within cancer diagnostics at the University Hospital, signifying a promising step towards a more efficient and effective healthcare system.

Artificial intelligence software contributes to early detection of breast cancer in Dresden Radiology