IMPA project featured on CNN program.

The algorithm developed by IMPA (Institute of Pure and Applied Mathematics) and the Dasa group to identify problems in pregnancy was featured on the “CNN Sinais Vitais” program this Wednesday (1st). IMPA researcher and project coordinator, Paulo Orenstein, was one of the interviewees on the weekly program presented by physician Roberto Kalil.

Developed by the Pi Center (IMPA's Research and Innovation Center) and physicians from Dasa, the innovative technology created an algorithm that analyzes images from gestational exams to detect problems and thus prevent complications in the fetus and mother. The technology has a 93% accuracy rate when compared to analyses by physicians.

In an interview with CNN, Paulo Orenstein explained that the technology speeds up the diagnosis of pregnancy problems by estimating the amount of amniotic fluid in the pregnant woman's uterus. "This is currently done in a relatively manual way, and what we did was provide an algorithm that can, in a matter of seconds, generate an estimate of the volume," stated the IMPA researcher in the report, which also interviewed healthcare professionals and other specialists about advances in fetal medicine.

The system created by IMPA and Dasa also assists in the detection of pathologies in the baby, since amniotic fluid is fundamental for the development and protection of the fetus during gestation. The technology can, for example, help diagnose esophageal obstruction or demonstrate dysfunctions in the baby's urinary system based on the amount of fluid in the uterus. To reach these conclusions, the researchers used 700 3D magnetic resonance images to train the artificial intelligence.

The “CNN Vital Signs” program also interviewed the coordinator of the Biodesign Laboratory at Dasa/PUC-Rio, physician Heron Werner Júnior, who demonstrated how virtual reality technology works and how it contributes to early diagnosis. “At the beginning of my career, I saw myself drawing fetal profiles to show to mothers. And today I have a technology that helps in this approach, also facilitating my diagnosis, the evaluation of the prognosis, and the team that discusses certain pathologies with me,” he commented.

Specialist in gynecological and obstetrical imaging, Werner Júnior also states that the idea behind this laboratory is to combine 3D printing technologies with virtual reality technologies. “Everything we do in 3D comes from a virtual file, so I can generate a virtual reality and thus create simulations.” The full report is available on CNN Brasil's YouTube channel.