Developments in Deep Learning Artificial Neural Network Techniques for Medical Image Analysis and Interpretation

Olamilekan Shobayo, Reza Saatchi

Deep learning has revolutionised medical image analysis, offering the possibility of automated, efficient, and highly accurate diagnostic solutions. This article explores recent developments in deep learning techniques applied to medical imaging, including convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for classification and segmentation, recurrent neural networks (RNNs) for temporal analysis, autoencoders for feature extraction, and generative adversarial networks (GANs) for image synthesis and augmentation. Additionally, U-Net models for segmentation, vision transformers (ViTs) for global feature extraction, and hybrid models integrating multiple architectures are explored. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) process were used, and searches on PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases were conducted. The findings highlight key challenges such as data availability, interpretability, overfitting, and computational requirements. While deep learning has demonstrated significant potential in enhancing diagnostic accuracy across multiple medical imaging modalities—including MRI, CT, US, and X-ray—factors such as model trust, data privacy, and ethical considerations remain ongoing concerns. The study underscores the importance of integrating multimodal data, improving computational efficiency, and advancing explainability to facilitate broader clinical adoption. Future research directions emphasize optimising deep learning models for real-time applications, enhancing interpretability, and integrating deep learning with existing healthcare frameworks for improved patient outcomes.