Image Segmentation as an Instrument for Setting Attention Regions in Convolutional Neural Networks for Bias Detection Purposes

Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are constantly being used for medical image processing with increased application in publicly available datasets and are later being actively applied in medical practice. Therefore, since patient lives are at stake, it is important that the functionality of the neural network is beyond reproach. In this paper, due to dataset availability, we present two lung segmentation approaches using traditional image processing and deep learning methodologies; these approaches can later be used to focus a CNN for image segmentation and classification tasks, with implementations spanning everything from disease diagnosis to demographic and bias analysis. The aim of this paper is to provide a framework for segmentation in medical images of the chest cavity, as a way of applying attention regions and localizing sources of bias in images. Both of the proposed segmentation tools, the traditional image approach using computer tomography scans and the CNN applied to chest X-rays, provide excellent lung segmentation comparable to popular methods in the image processing sphere. This allows for an all-encompassing application of the developed methodology regardless of different image formats, therefore making it widely applicable in setting attention regions for CNNs.