CLASSICA Validating AI in Classifying Cancer in Real-Time Surgery

CLASSICA is an EU-funded project looking at how to deploy cancer classification AI technology in the operating theatre. We will clinically validate a novel AI-guided intraoperative decision-support technology across several clinics, surgical teams, and countries. Our technology will differentiate between cancerous and non-cancerous tissues in real-time. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer type globally and the second most common cause of cancer death, leading to almost one million deaths annually. In CLASSICA, we transform a research prototype for classifying colorectal cancer tissue into a tool that will be used by surgeons in the operating theatre. The aim of the technology is to deliver decision-making support for cancer surgeons across Europe. In addition, we will establish clinical, legal, and ethical precedent for AI support in surgical operations. CLASSICA builds on breakthrough research in the AI analysis of fluorescence and perfusion in cancer tissues. The technology will differentiate between cancerous and non-cancerous tissues in real-time.