Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A computer-implemented arrangement (apparatus and method) for semi-automatically determining from CT image data the volume of a tumor. A primary application is to determining a tumor volume for patients with hepatoma and primary hepatic cholangiocarcinoma. CT image data of a scanned organ, stored on a magnetic tape, is read into a computer. This data includes for each of plural slices of predetermined thickness a plurality of pixels defining the slice and a CT number representing tissue density corresponding to each pixel. An image of the first slice is displayed on a monitor. A region of interest (ROI) approximating an outline of the organ is automatically generated, which outline is visually modified, if necessary, by an operator to closely correspond to the organ's outline. The particular pixels within the organ's outline and the CT numbers associated therewith are stored as a local histogram of the slice, the local histogram including data indicative of the number of pixels within the organ's outline having each unique CT number. Local histograms, produced in a similar manner for each slice, are summed to generate a global histogram indicative of the number of pixels within the organ outline's of respective slices having each unique CT number. From the global histogram, a demarcation CT number distinguishing tumor tissue from normal organ tissue is determined. From the global histogram and demarcation CT number, the organ volume and tumor volume are determined.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim