Computer-Assisted Measurement of Sonoelastographic Phantom Images: Is It Reliable for Future Clinical Use?

• DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2011.05.231
• Publication Date: 2011-07-28T20:04:35Z
• Authors: S.M. Dudea; S. Nedevschi; S. Bolboaca; D. Dumitriu; M.M. Duma; C. Pantelie
• Keywords: Concordance; Hue; Observer (physics); Mean difference; Concordance correlation coefficient

To validate the usefulness of a dedicated software for quantitative analysis sonoelastographic images. A measuring average values color channels, intensity and hue (AvgHue) on images was developed. We used Hitachi 8500 EUB scanner an elastography phantom. Two observers performed each two sets measurements same 432 Inter- intraobserver variability calculated using concordance correlation coefficient (ρc) associated 95% confidence interval at significance level 5%. Inter-observer revealed coefficients colors varying from 0.8283 to 0.9996 (`almost perfect` in 67% `substantial` 32% cases). For AvgHue, when 12 units applied (on 248 unit scale, 1 = red; blue), 99% cases difference not significant while 5 yielded 3%. Intra-observer showed 0.9035 0.9999, respectively, 0.8947 0.9997. with variability, there were no differences both 100% cases. Variability AvgHue produced only 2% Computer-assisted measurement parameters proved be reproducible inter- intra-observer, potetntial reducing assessment subjectivity.