Developing new tool for automatic analysis of IVUS images: from border detection to plaque characterization

One of the main causes of mortality is atherosclerosis which leads to sudden cardiac attack. Frequently the first symptom of coronary artery disease is acute coronary syndromes (ACS) which is mainly caused by the rupture of a coronary artery. Histopathological studies have revealed that generally atherosclerotic plaque rupture results in thrombi. Atherosclerosis components of clinical importance are calcium, fibrous, necrotic, and lipid rich tissue. Size and pattern of each plaque component existing in the plaque area can define the nature of problem. Thus, precise characterization of plaque lesions provides physician with better understanding of the vessel disease situation to choose the appropriate treatment strategy and assessment of the therapy effectiveness too. Grayscale intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) provides real-time and high-resolution tomography visualization of the coronary arteries. Lumen and vessel dimensions, and the distribution of different plaques can be analyzed through inspecting images driven by IVUS imaging modality. Moreover, intra luminal thrombus presence and plaque rupture assessment can be done by employing grayscale IVUS.     «

One of the main causes of mortality is atherosclerosis which leads to sudden cardiac attack. Frequently the first symptom of coronary artery disease is acute coronary syndromes (ACS) which is mainly caused by the rupture of a coronary artery. Histopathological studies have revealed that generally atherosclerotic plaque rupture results in thrombi. Atherosclerosis components of clinical importance are calcium, fibrous, necrotic, and lipid rich tissue. Size and pattern of each plaque component...     »