Interpretable deep learning approaches for reliable GI image classification: A study with the HyperKvasir dataset

Abstract

Deep learning has emerged as a promising tool for automating gastrointestinal (GI) disease diagnosis. However, multi-class GI disease classification remains underexplored. This study addresses this gap by presenting a framework that uses advanced models like InceptionNetV3 and ResNet50, combined with boosting algorithms (XGB, LGBM), to classify lower GI abnormalities. InceptionNetV3 with XGB achieved the best recall of 0.81 and an F1 score of 0.90. To assist clinicians in understanding model decisions, the Grad-CAM technique, a form of explainable AI, was employed to highlight the critical regions influencing predictions, fostering trust in these systems. This approach significantly improves both the accuracy and reliability of GI disease diagnosis.