MultiFlow: A unified deep learning framework for multi-vessel classification, segmentation and clustering of phase-contrast MRI validated on a multi-site single ventricle patient cohort

TL;DR

MultiFlow is a comprehensive deep learning framework that automates vessel segmentation, classification, and flow phenotyping in phase-contrast MRI, enabling large-scale analysis of single-ventricle patients with significant clinical implications.

Contribution

The paper introduces a novel unified deep learning framework that combines vessel segmentation, classification, and flow clustering for single-ventricle MRI data, validated on a large multi-site cohort.

Findings

Achieved 0.91 Dice score on vessel segmentation

Processed over 5,500 exams automatically

Identified flow phenotypes linked to clinical outcomes

Abstract

We present a deep learning framework with two models for automated segmentation and large-scale flow phenotyping in a registry of single-ventricle patients. MultiFlowSeg simultaneously classifies and segments five key vessels, left and right pulmonary arteries, aorta, superior vena cava, and inferior vena cava, from velocity encoded phase-contrast magnetic resonance (PCMR) data. Trained on 260 CMR exams (5 PCMR scans per exam), it achieved an average Dice score of 0.91 on 50 unseen test cases. The method was then integrated into an automated pipeline where it processed over 5,500 registry exams without human assistance, in exams with all 5 vessels it achieved 98% classification and 90% segmentation accuracy. Flow curves from successful segmentations were used to train MultiFlowDTC, which applied deep temporal clustering to identify distinct flow phenotypes. Survival analysis revealed distinct phenotypes were significantly associated with increased risk of death/transplantation and liver disease, demonstrating the potential of the framework.