Overview
Researchers have created an AI-assisted diagnostic system capable of estimating bone mineral density in the lumbar spine and femur using X-ray images. This advancement is detailed in a study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Research.
Study Details
- A total of 1,454 X-ray images were analyzed.
- Sensitivity rates for detecting osteopenia were:
- 86.4% for the lumbar spine
- 84.1% for the femur
- Specificity rates were:
- 80.4% for the lumbar spine
- 76.3% for the femur
- The system also demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity in identifying patients with and without osteoporosis.
Significance of the Research
According to Dr. Toru Moro, the corresponding author from the University of Tokyo, “Bone mineral density measurement is crucial for screening and diagnosing osteoporosis. However, limited access to diagnostic equipment leaves millions undiagnosed globally.” He emphasized that this AI system could turn routine clinical X-rays into an effective tool for opportunistic screening, facilitating earlier and more efficient detection of osteoporosis.
Reference
Moro T, et al. (2025). Development of Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Lumbar and Femoral BMD Estimation System Using Anteroposterior Lumbar X-Ray Images. J Orthop Res. doi: 10.1002/jor.70000