Real-world use of PACS-integrated automated spine numbering in MRI

Traditional methods of vertebral identification have predominantly relied on relative approaches, depending on discernible landmarks. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force in radiology, aiming to augment the workflow of radiologists and the benefit of patients. This study aims to investigate the real-world application of picture archiving and communication system (PACS)-integrated automated spine numbering for the daily interpretation of spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans.

This retrospective study, at a tertiary hospital, analyzed 235 spine MRI cases from November 2023 to January 2024. The study focused on the effect of AI-assisted spine labeling system. We measured reading times from PACS log records, leading to the exclusion of 32 cases due to time outliers. Thus, 109 (53.7%) implemented AI, while 94 (46.3%) did not. Subgroup analysis evaluated differences based on the type of radiologist (specialist vs. resident), whether the examination was an initial or follow-up, and the anatomic region (lumbar vs. non-lumbar).

Integrating an AI-assisted spine labeling algorithm into the PACS significantly reduced reading times for residents (p < 0.05) but not for specialists. AI-implemented cases demonstrated high accuracy, with only 2.8% discordance. Despite AI implementation, overall reading times did not differ significantly (p = 0.0858).

AI has the potential to enhance efficiency, particularly benefiting trainees, by providing a consistent reference for the spinal anatomy. Future studies should explore the effect of AI on clinical outcomes and patient care.