Image segmentation using MRI vertebral cross-sections

TitleImage segmentation using MRI vertebral cross-sections
Publication TypeConference Paper
Year of Publication2001
AuthorsBooth, S., and D. A. Clausi
Conference Name14th Canadian Conference on Electrical and Computer Engineering
Keywords3D image, 3D spinal image, algorithm, anatomy symmetry, axial MRI cross-sections, biomedical MRI, computer assisted spinal surgery, deformable template, edge detection, image segmentation, low contrast edges identification, medical image processing, MRI vertebral cross-sections, orthopaedics, orthopedic surgery, patient data, patient spine, scale estimation, spinal cord segmentation, surgery, vertebrae orientation, vertebrae position, vertebral body
Abstract

Computer assisted spinal surgery requires the development of a 3-D image of a patient's spine. A method is being developed to construct such a 3-D spinal image from axial MRI cross-sections, using a deformable template. This paper outlines techniques used to register the model with the patient data. First an algorithm based on symmetry of the anatomy is developed to determine the position and orientation of the vertebrae in each cross-section. Second, an active contour is used for segmentation of the spinal cord. Last, a novel edge detection scheme is developed to identify the low contrast edges of the vertebral body in each cross-section

DOI10.1109/CCECE.2001.933633