SegGPT: Advanced Transformers for Superior Image Segmentation

SegGPT: Advanced Transformers for Superior Image Segmentation

Accurate segmentation of bone structures is crucial for diagnosing fractures, planning surgeries, and monitoring the progression of diseases like osteoporosis. The application of advanced AI models has significantly enhanced the precision and efficiency of medical imaging.

Previously, we adapted the architectures of SE-RegUNet and CIDN for the segmentation of bone lesions and vessels. Now, our focus has shifted to the SegGPT model, which has opened up new possibilities in the field of image segmentation. 

What is SegGPT?

SegGPT is a powerful transformer model trained on an enormous amount of data. It is capable of performing image segmentation without the need for fine-tuning on specific datasets. This means that the model can be immediately applied to various tasks, whether it’s medical images, animal photographs, or even satellite imagery.

image segmentation

Image segmentation with SegGPT

Key advantages of SegGPT

Thanks to its training on a large amount of heterogeneous data, SegGPT can segment various types of objects without the need for additional customization. Unlike previously tested models, SegGPT does not require special image preprocessing methods, making it more user-friendly and efficient. 

 

The model is capable of segmenting multiple objects within a single image. However, the quality of segmentation may decrease when handling multiple objects simultaneously. This versatility not only saves time but also reduces computational power, if taken as it is. This makes SegGPT a highly efficient tool for a wide range of image segmentation tasks.

Adapting SegGPT for our tasks: Overcoming limitations and technical features

Issue with grayscale images

Originally, SegGPT was not designed to work with black-and-white (grayscale) images. However, this is standard in medical imaging, especially in radiography. This meant we needed to adapt the model to work with such data.

 

Here’s what we did:

 

  1. Channel conversion: we added artificial color channels to imitate the RGB format required for the model.
  2. Architecture modification: we made changes to the initial layers of the model for correct processing of single-channel images.
  3. Library handling: although completely rewriting the library would be labor-intensive, we found ways to minimize changes while preserving the main structure of the model.

Model architecture

SegGPT is based on the transformer architecture, which has proven itself in processing simple sequences like text. In the case of images, they are transformed into a sequence of patches. Then, then they are processed by the attention mechanism.

Key components:

 

  • Encoder transforms input patches into embeddings.
  • Self-attention mechanism allows the model to consider the context of each patch relative to others.
  • Decoder generates segmentation masks based on the processed embeddings.

Model limitations

Lower accuracy compared to specialized models

For its versatility and functionality, SegGPT pays with some reduction in accuracy compared to highly specialized models like CIDN for vessels and bones. Although quality metrics remain high, they may be lower than models specifically tuned for particular tasks.

Difficulties with scaling

Because of the complexity of the architecture and dependence on the RGB format, scaling the model or fully adapting it to grayscale images can be challenging and may require significant efforts in code rewriting.

Segmentation quality in multiclass segmentation

Although the model can segment multiple objects in one image, quality may be lower compared to single-class segmentation.

Comparison with previous approaches: SE-RegUNet and CIDN

Previously, we used SE-RegUNet for segmentation of bone lesions and CIDN to improve vessel segmentation. Let’s see how these approaches compare to our current model:

comparison of SE-RegUNet, CIDN, and SegGPT

Real use cases

Although SegGPT may lag behind specialized models in accuracy for specific tasks, its versatility makes it highly attractive for a wide range of applications.

Medical diagnostics

We tested SegGPT on tasks of segmenting bone lesions and vessels on medical images.

 

Bone fracture segmentation 

SegGPT in xray images

The model successfully highlights fracture areas in X-ray images.

Vascular structure highlighting

SegGPT in angiographic images

In angiographic images, SegGPT is capable of identifying vascular networks.

Despite the impressive results, the segmentation quality may be lower than models specifically trained for these tasks, such as CIDN.

Segmentation of animals in photographs

Besides medical applications, we tested the model on regular photographs of animals.

SegGPT in computer vision

The model highlights the contours of animals in the image, which can be useful for applications in computer vision.

Although not perfect, SegGPT is capable of detecting multiple masks in a single image, which is a significant advantage. This ability allows the model to simultaneously identify different objects within one frame, broadening its applications across various fields. 

However, the resulting accuracy for multi-mask segmentation is typically moderate, reflecting a trade-off between versatility and precision.

SegGPT detecting multiple masks in a single image

SegGPT offers a remarkable ability to be quickly applied to new tasks without requiring a lengthy training process, making it highly versatile and efficient. This adaptability allows SegGPT to be used across a wide range of sectors, including medicine, agriculture, and security. 

 

In the medical field, it can assist in tasks such as image segmentation for diagnostics, while in agriculture, it can be used for monitoring crop health and optimizing yields. In the security sector, SegGPT can enhance surveillance systems and threat detection. 

 

The model’s flexibility enables it to be tailored to specific client needs, expanding its functionality and ensuring it meets diverse requirements effectively. This adaptability not only broadens its application but also enhances its value as a tool for various industries.

Conclusion

The use of SegGPT opens new horizons in the field of image segmentation. Despite some limitations, the model demonstrates impressive results in various tasks without the need for additional training. However, if you require super-high accuracy and have a dataset with annotations, specialized models might be a more appropriate choice.

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    Setronica is a software engineering company that provides a wide range of services, from software products to core business applications. We offer consulting, development, testing, infrastructure support, and cloud management services to enterprises. We apply the knowledge, skills, and Agile methodology of project management to integrate software development and business objectives effectively and efficiently.