New National Recommendation on Artificial Intelligence in Medicine: Contribution from FAU Pattern Recognition Lab
A new recommendation on the application of artificial intelligence in medicine has been published by the German Commission on Radiological Protection (Strahlenschutzkommission, SSK). The document provides guidance on the safe development, evaluation and clinical use of AI-based methods in medical imaging, including applications in image reconstruction, image processing and diagnostic support.
The recommendation addresses both the opportunities and challenges associated with AI in medical imaging. While AI methods can improve diagnostic information and potentially enhance image quality without increasing radiation exposure, they also require rigorous validation, transparent documentation and careful selection of training and validation data to ensure reliability and patient safety.
Prof. Dr. Andreas Maier, head of the Pattern Recognition Lab at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), contributed his expertise to the development of the recommendation. His research focuses on machine learning and image reconstruction methods for medical imaging, areas that are central to the integration of AI into radiology and nuclear medicine.
The publication represents the first comprehensive recommendation of its kind in Germany addressing the use of artificial intelligence in radiological imaging from a radiation protection perspective. By outlining methodological standards and quality assurance principles, it provides an important foundation for the safe clinical adoption of AI technologies.
The initiative has already attracted significant attention beyond Germany. Experts and regulatory bodies across Europe are closely observing the framework as a potential model for future guidelines on the responsible integration of artificial intelligence into clinical practice.
