Deep learning-based classification of acute scrotum using single ultrasound images.

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Abstract

To develop a deep learning model for differential diagnosis of acute scrotum using single ultrasound (US) images. We analysed 1172 patients with acute scrotal pain evaluated by Doppler US at four hospitals. From each case, we selected a representative axial colour Doppler US image. We trained a binary classification model to distinguish torsion from non-torsion using an EfficientNet architecture. The dataset was split 70% for training and 30% for validation. We addressed class imbalance with data augmentation and class weighting. Class Activation Mapping was used to interpret model decisions. The model achieved robust performance: accuracy 97%, precision 98%, sensitivity 97%, and F1 score 97%. Class activation mapping heatmaps localised decision-making to pathologically critical regions, including absent testicular blood flow and whirlpool signs. In a 20-patient prospective pilot study, the system correctly identified both surgically confirmed torsion cases, with one non-torsion case misclassified as torsion. A deep learning model demonstrated promising diagnostic performance in differentiating acute scrotal emergencies using single US images. Its feasibility was preliminarily assessed in a small pilot study. These findings support further investigation, with larger and more balanced multicentre studies required to establish clinical utility and effective workflow integration.

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