DefinePK

Abstract

Background Artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized diagnostic radiology by improving accuracy, efficiency, and clinical decision-making. While numerous systematic reviews and meta-analyses have evaluated the performance of AI-based techniques, particularly traditional machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) models, a comprehensive synthesis of this evidence is lacking. An umbrella review is necessary to integrate and compare findings across various imaging applications, offering the highest level of evidence to inform clinical practice and policy.
Objective This umbrella review aims to compare the diagnostic performance of traditional machine learning and deep learning methods in radiology by synthesizing evidence from existing systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
Methods A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for systematic reviews and meta-analyses published between 2018 and 2024. Only peer-reviewed reviews evaluating diagnostic applications of AI in radiology were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the AMSTAR 2 tool, and risk of bias was evaluated using ROBIS.
Results Seven systematic reviews and meta-analyses were included. Across multiple imaging domains—such as breast cancer screening, spinal stenosis, and tumor grading—deep learning consistently outperformed traditional ML in diagnostic accuracy and sensitivity. Evidence quality was rated moderate to high, though variability in reporting and a lack of external validation were noted. Explainability features in DL models were underutilized and poorly evaluated.
Conclusion This umbrella review confirms the superior diagnostic performance of deep learning methods over traditional ML in radiology. Future research should prioritize model transparency, real-world validation, and standardization in clinical implementation.