Using Deep Learning in Automated Detection of Graft Detachment in Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty: A Pilot Study

Purpose: To evaluate a deep learning-based method to automatically detect graft detachment (GD) after Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) in anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT). Methods: In this study, a total of 1172 AS-OCT images (609: attached graft; 563: detached graft) were used to train and test a deep convolutional neural network to automatically detect GD after DMEK surgery in AS-OCT images. GD was defined as a not completely attached graft. After training with 1072 of these images (559: attached graft; 513: detached graft), the created classifier was tested with the remaining 100 AS-OCT scans (50: attached graft; 50 detached: graft). Hereby, a probability score for GD (GD score) was determined for each of the tested OCT images. Results: The mean GD score was 0.88 +/- 0.2 in the GD group and 0.08 +/- 0.13 in the group with an attached graft. The differences between both groups were highly significant (P < 0.001). The sensitivity of the classifier was 98%, the specificity 94%, and the accuracy 96%. The coefficient of variation was 3.28 +/- 6.90% for the GD group and 2.82 +/- 3.81% for the graft attachment group. Conclusions: With the presented deep learning-based classifier, reliable automated detection of GD after DMEK is possible. Further work is needed to incorporate information about the size and position of GD and to develop a standardized approach regarding when rebubbling may be needed.