Deep learning for categorization of endodontic lesion based on radiographic periapical index scoring system

The study aimed to apply convolutional neural network (CNN) to score periapical lesion on an intraoral periapical radiograph (IOPAR) based on the periapical index (PAI) scoring system.

A total of 3000 periapical root areas (PRA) on 1950 digital IOPAR were pre-scored by three endodontists. This data was used to train the CNN model-"YOLO version 3." A total of 450 PRA was used for validation of the model. Data augmentation techniques and model optimization were applied. A total of 540 PRA on 250 digital IOPAR was used to test the performance of the CNN model.

A total of 303 PRA (56.11%) exhibited true prediction. PAI score 1 showed the highest true prediction (90.9%). PAI scores 2 and 5 exhibited the least true prediction (30% each). PAI scores 3 and 4 had a true prediction of 60% and 71%, respectively. When the scores were dichotomized as healthy (PAI scores 1 and 2) and diseased (PAI score 3, 4, and 5), the model achieved a true prediction of 76.6% and 92%, respectively. The model exhibited a 92.1% sensitivity/recall, 76% specificity, 86.4% positive predictive value/precision, and 86.1% negative predictive value. The accuracy, F1 score, and Matthews correlation coefficient were 86.3%, 0.89, and 0.71, respectively.

The CNN model trained on a limited amount of IOPAR data showed potential for PAI scoring of the periapical lesion on digital IOPAR.

An automated system for PAI scoring is developed that would potentially benefit clinician and researchers.