Machine Learning and MRI-Based Whole-Organ Magnetic Resonance Imaging Score (WORMS): A Novel Approach to Enhancing Genicular Artery Embolization Outcomes in Knee Osteoarthritis.

purposeTo evaluate the feasibility of machine learning (ML) models using preprocedural MRI-based Whole-Organ Magnetic Resonance Imaging Score (WORMS) and clinical parameters to predict treatment response after genicular artery embolization in patients with knee osteoarthritis. MATERIALS AND

methodsThis retrospective study included 66 patients (72 knees) who underwent GAE between December 2022 and June 2024. Preprocedural assessments included WORMS and Kellgren-Lawrence grading. Clinical response was defined as a ≥ 50% reduction in Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score. Feature selection was performed using recursive feature elimination and correlation analysis. Multiple ML algorithms (Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, Logistic Regression) were trained using stratified fivefold cross-validation. Conventional statistical analyses assessed group differences and correlations.

resultsOf 72 knees, 33 (45.8%) achieved a clinically significant response. Responders showed significantly lower WORMSs for cartilage, bone marrow, and total joint damage (p < 0.05). The Random Forest model demonstrated the best performance, with an accuracy of 81.8%, AUC-ROC of 86.2%, sensitivity of 90%, and specificity of 75%. Key predictive features included total WORMS, ligament score, and baseline VAS. Bone marrow score showed the strongest correlation with VAS reduction (r = -0.430, p < 0.001).

conclusionML models integrating WORMS and clinical data suggest that greater cartilage loss, bone marrow edema, joint damage, and higher baseline VAS scores may help to identify patients less likely to respond to GAE for knee OA.