Tampa, Fla.-based Shriners Children’s is developing an AI tool designed to predict potentially dangerous changes in spinal cord signals before surgery.
The model is being trained using thousands of data points from surgical procedures, clinical notes, X-rays and patient histories. Once completed, it will be the first predictive AI model of its kind in pediatric spinal surgery, according to a June 1 news release.
The nonprofit healthcare system is collaborating with Atlanta-based Georgia Tech to develop the tool using natural language processing and machine learning. Researchers aim to identify patients who may be at higher risk for spinal cord signal changes during surgery, allowing care teams to adjust treatment plans before complications occur.
The technology could influence surgical planning, including decisions about staging procedures, the use of halo traction before spinal fusion and blood pressure management during operations, according to the release.
Shriners Children’s network across the U.S., Canada and Mexico provides a large volume of complex spinal surgery cases and data to support development of the predictive model, the release said. The system has submitted a preliminary manuscript for publication.
At the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, taking place June 11-13 in Chicago, spine surgeons, orthopedic leaders and ASC executives will come together to explore minimally invasive techniques, ASC growth strategies and innovations shaping the future of outpatient spine care. Apply for complimentary registration now.
