HARMONIE: Künstliche Intelligenz zur intraoperativen Ultraschall-Lokalisierung von Markern und Tumoren nach der Neoadjuvanten Therapie von Brustkrebs

Motivation
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. Many patients undergo chemotherapy before surgery, which significantly reduces the size of the tumor. As a result, it often becomes difficult to feel or see, making precise removal during surgery more challenging. Technologies based on artificial intelligence (AI) could make breast-conserving surgery safer and more successful.

Goals and approach
The aim of the project is to make breast tumors more visible and easier to locate after chemotherapy. To achieve this, the researchers are combining new tissue markers that are easily detectable by ultrasound with AI-supported image analysis. The artificial intelligence evaluates the images in real time and assists doctors in locating the tumor during surgery. The system displays marked areas, facilitating the safe removal of tumor tissue. The system is based on a large database of ultrasound and X-ray images, which the research team collects during the project and prepares for AI training. At the same time, it is testing the technology in everyday clinical practice and working with surgeons to develop it further so that it can be used easily and reliably.

Innovations and Prospects
The project has the potential to replace the markers used to date, which are not always reliable, with a marker that is visible on ultrasound and optimized for intraoperative detection. An approved medical device could gently improve treatment, reduce costs in the healthcare system, and set new standards in cancer surgery.