An objective method to optimize the MR sequence set for plaque classification in carotid vessel wall images using automated image segmentation.

ABSTRACT: A typical MR imaging protocol to study the status of atherosclerosis in the carotid artery consists of the application of multiple MR sequences. Since scanner time is limited, a balance has to be reached between the duration of the applied MR protocol and the quantity and quality of the resulting images which are needed to assess the disease. In this study an objective method to optimize the MR sequence set for classification of soft plaque in vessel wall images of the carotid artery using automated image segmentation was developed. The automated method employs statistical pattern recognition techniques and was developed based on an extensive set of MR contrast weightings and corresponding manual segmentations of the vessel wall and soft plaque components, which were validated by histologi

SUBMITTER: van 't Klooster R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3806831 | biostudies-literature | 2013

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature