New Study Confirms AI’s Power in Detecting Prostate Cancer

Sept. 4, 2024 — A recently published study in BJUI Compass confirms that Unfold AI, an FDA-cleared artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm developed by Avenda Health, accurately predicted estimate extracapsular extension (ECE) risk.

In conjunction with UCLA, the study used Unfold AI’s technology to map 3D cancer probability and estimate extracapsular extension (ECE) risk, comparing it to conventional methodologies. The results revealed that Unfold AI accurately predicted ECE risk and outperformed conventional methodologies, helping surgeons more accurately predict extraprostatic disease extensions.

ECE, the spread of cancer beyond the prostate gland into the surrounding soft tissue, can lead to a higher risk of positive surgical margins, which in turn can increase the likelihood of recurrence or metastatic disease. The presence of ECE is critical in determining treatment options and assessing the risk to quality of life among prostate cancer patients, making its accurate identification crucial for reducing cancer recurrence. 

The study retrospectively analyzed data from 147 patients who received MRI-targeted biopsy followed by radical prostatectomy, finding Unfold AI had significantly higher predictors for patient-level ECE prediction than other standard of care methods evaluated. Unfold AI also demonstrated a reduction in false negatives.

“By providing a more precise assessment of extracapsular extension, our AI tool empowers physicians to make better-informed decisions, ultimately improving patient outcomes and setting a new benchmark for diagnostic accuracy,” said Shyam Natarajan, CEO of Avenda.

For more information, visit avendahealth.com.