As part of a project led by Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU), researchers will develop a domestically produced, artificial intelligence-powered medical diagnostic device capable of detecting spinal deformities without the use of X-rays. Supported by a ₺4 million grant from the Health Institutes of Türkiye (TÜSEB), the project aims to reduce unnecessary radiation exposure, particularly among children.

Prof. Dr. Erdal Kılıç, a faculty member in the Department of Computer Science within the Department of Computer Engineering at the Faculty of Engineering, provided details about the project, titled "An Artificial Intelligence-Supported Domestic Radiation-Free Medical Diagnostic and Early Detection Device for the Early Diagnosis of Scoliosis, Kyphosis/Lordosis, and Spinal Deformities, and for Spinal Region Identification."

"We Are Developing an AI-Supported Alternative to X-Rays"

Prof. Dr. Kılıç explained that spinal curvatures are currently diagnosed primarily through X-ray imaging.

"Frequent and prolonged use of X-rays, especially in young children, results in repeated exposure to radiation. This prompted us to ask whether we could develop a domestic, nationally developed alternative that does not rely on X-rays. Our goal is to create a diagnostic method that protects patients from unnecessary radiation exposure."

"A Three-Dimensional Model of the Spine Will Be Created"

Describing how the system will operate, Prof. Dr. Kılıç said:

"We will move a device that we call the Spinal Mouse along the patient's spine. Data collected by the sensors embedded in the device will be transferred to a computer, where it will be processed to generate a three-dimensional model of the spine."

He explained that the system will then calculate the Cobb angle, the standard clinical measurement used to assess spinal curvature.

"This will allow the degree of spinal curvature to be determined without exposing the patient to radiation."

"Artificial Intelligence Will Also Guide the Treatment Process"

Prof. Dr. Kılıç noted that the project extends beyond diagnosis alone.

"The artificial intelligence system will analyze the collected data and provide recommendations regarding the type of brace the patient should use, how many hours per day it should be worn, and the expected duration of treatment. In this way, we will develop an intelligent system that supports physicians in their clinical decision-making."

₺4 Million in TÜSEB Funding

Prof. Dr. Kılıç stated that the project, which has received ₺4 million in funding from TÜSEB, is expected to be completed within approximately two years.

He added that the research team includes Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cengiz Tepe from the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Asst. Prof. Dr. Oğuz Emre Kural and Research Assistant Dr. Zinnet Duygu Akşehir from the Department of Computer Engineering. Two undergraduate students will also participate in the project.