RSNA Lumbar Spine Degenerative Classification AI Challenge (2024)

In collaboration with the American Society of Neuroradiology, the 2024 RSNA Lumbar Spine Degenerative Classification AI Challenge invited researchers to develop models that can detect and classify degenerative spine conditions using lumbar spine MR images. The carefully curated and annotated dataset includes images from more than eight sites across five continents. 

The RSNA Lumbar Spine Degenerative Classification AI Challenge (2024) was supported by Vision Radiology.

Challenge timeline and recognition for winning teams

The competition is closed. Winners will be announced in November and winning teams will be recognized during RSNA 2024 (Dec. 1–5), held at McCormick Place in Chicago.

Background 

According to the World Health Organization, low back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide, affecting 619 million people in 2020.  

Most people experience low back pain at some point in their lives and its prevalence increases with age. Pain and restricted mobility are often symptoms of spondylosis. Spondylosis encompasses a set of degenerative spine conditions, including degeneration of vertebral discs and narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis), that exert pressure on nerves in the low back.    

MRI provides a detailed view of the lumbar spine vertebra, discs and nerves, enabling radiologists to assess the presence and severity of these conditions. Proper diagnosis and grading of these conditions help guide treatment and potential surgery to help alleviate back pain and improve overall health and quality of life for patients.  

Acknowledgments

RSNA would like to thank all those who made this challenge possible.

View acknowledgments

Contact us 

For questions, contact us at informatics@rsna.org