Specialties: Orthopedic tumor (bone tumor, soft tissue tumor) treatment and surgery, osteoporosis diagnosis and treatment, minimally invasive tophi treatment, knee and hip reconstruction/artificial joint replacement, general orthopedics, fracture trauma, degenerative arthritis

Osteoporosis, a silent disease characterized by decreased bone mass and increased fracture risk, poses a significant threat to aging populations. Early detection is crucial, as most individuals show no symptoms until a fracture occurs—often leading to long-term disability or reduced quality of life. While dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) remains the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis, its limited accessibility and cost make it underutilized, especially in asymptomatic individuals.

To address this gap, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a promising tool in medical imaging. By analyzing routine X-rays—such as pelvic or CXR films—AI algorithms can automatically detect patterns suggestive of low bone mineral density, helping identify high-risk individuals earlier and more efficiently. These AI models are trained on large datasets and have demonstrated diagnostic accuracy comparable to expert radiologists.

Far Eastern Memorial Hospital in Taiwan has taken a leading role in developing and deploying AI-assisted osteoporosis screening. In collaboration with medical researchers, the hospital has integrated an AI-powered bone risk analysis system into its imaging workflow. Patients undergoing X-ray examinations for various reasons may now also benefit from an automatic assessment of bone health, without additional procedures or costs.

This innovative approach allows broader access to early screening, particularly in outpatient and emergency settings, where traditional DXA scans may not be feasible. It also enhances clinical decision-making and supports preventive care by identifying at-risk individuals before fractures occur.