Detection of Bolus in Ultrasound Video Using YOLOv5 for Evaluation Swallowing

Abstract

This paper introduces a method for automatically detecting bolus in ultrasound videos using YOLOv5 to evaluate swallowing function. Neck ultrasound videos show promise for noninvasive swallowing function evaluation to prevent aspiration pneumonia. To effectively evaluate swallowing, it is essential to determine the position of the bolus, appearance frame, and size within the video. Currently, this evaluation relies on visual inspection by an examiner, requiring considerable effort. Therefore, this study aims to automate bolus detection in ultrasound videos using YOLOv5, widely used in object detection. The effectiveness of our method is assessed using ultrasound videos obtained from swallowing experiments involving jelly beverages and water.