Utilization of an attentive map to preserve anatomical features for training convolutional neural‐network‐based low‐dose CT denoiser

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundThe purpose of a convolutional neural network (CNN)‐based denoiser is to increase the diagnostic accuracy of low‐dose computed tomography (LDCT) imaging. To increase diagnostic accuracy, there is a need for a method that reflects the features related to diagnosis during the denoising process.PurposeTo provide a training strategy for LDCT denoisers that relies more on diagnostic task‐related features to improve diagnostic accuracy.MethodsAn attentive map derived from a lesion classifier (i.e., determining lesion‐present or not) is created to represent the extent to which each pixel influences the decision by the lesion classifier. This is used as a weight to emphasize important parts of the image. The proposed training method consists of two steps. In the first one, the initial parameters of the CNN denoiser are trained using LDCT and normal‐dose CT image pairs via supervised learning. In the second one, the learned parameters are readjusted using the attentive map to restore the fine details of the image.ResultsStructural details and the contrast are better preserved in images generated by using the denoiser trained via the proposed method than in those generated by conventional denoisers. The proposed denoiser also yields higher lesion detectability and localization accuracy than conventional denoisers.ConclusionsA denoiser trained using the proposed method preserves the small structures and the contrast in the denoised images better than without it. Specifically, using the attentive map improves the lesion detectability and localization accuracy of the denoiser.