Algorithms for Liver Segmentation in Computed Tomography Scans: A Historical Perspective.

Journal: Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
Published Date:

Abstract

Oncology has emerged as a crucial field of study in the domain of medicine. Computed tomography has gained widespread adoption as a radiological modality for the identification and characterisation of pathologies, particularly in oncology, enabling precise identification of affected organs and tissues. However, achieving accurate liver segmentation in computed tomography scans remains a challenge due to the presence of artefacts and the varying densities of soft tissues and adjacent organs. This paper compares artificial intelligence algorithms and traditional medical image processing techniques to assist radiologists in liver segmentation in computed tomography scans and evaluates their accuracy and efficiency. Despite notable progress in the field, the limited availability of public datasets remains a significant barrier to broad participation in research studies and replication of methodologies. Future directions should focus on increasing the accessibility of public datasets, establishing standardised evaluation metrics, and advancing the development of three-dimensional segmentation techniques. In addition, maintaining a collaborative relationship between technological advances and medical expertise is essential to ensure that these innovations not only achieve technical accuracy, but also remain aligned with clinical needs and realities. This synergy ensures their applicability and effectiveness in real-world healthcare environments.

Authors

  • Stephanie Batista Niño
    Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute of Engineering, Rua Pedro Nunes-Quinta da Nora, 3030-199 Coimbra, Portugal.
  • Jorge Bernardino
    Institute of Engineering of Coimbra (ISEC), Polytechnic of Coimbra, Rua Pedro Nunes, 3030-199 Coimbra, Portugal.
  • Inês Domingues
    Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Rua Pedro Nunes-Quinta da Nora, 3030-199, Coimbra, Portugal.