Improved analysis of brachial artery ultrasound using a novel edge-detection software system

• DOI: 10.1152/jappl.2001.91.2.929
• Publication Date: 2017-12-22T21:19:41Z
• Authors: R. J. Woodman; D. A. Playford; G. F. Watts; C. Cheetham; C. Reed; R. R. Taylor; I. B. Puddey; L. J. Beilin; V. Burke; T. A. Mori; D. Green
• Keywords: Brachial artery; Coefficient of variation

Brachial artery ultrasound is commonly employed for noninvasive assessment of endothelial function. However, analysis observer dependent and susceptible to errors. We describe studies on a computerized edge-detection wall-tracking software program allow more accurate reproducible measurement. In study 1, three purpose-built Perspex phantom arteries, 3.00, 4.00, 6.00 mm in diameter, were measured with the software. There was mean bias 11 μm ( P < 0.001 at each level) between known values; resolving power estimated as 8.3 μm. 2, intraobserver coefficient variation repeated measures flow-mediated dilation (FMD) using (6.7%) significantly lower than that traditional manual measurements intima-lumen interfaces (24.8%, 0.05) intima-media (32.5%, 0.05). 3, 24 healthy volunteers underwent repeat testing twice within 1 wk; coefficients between-visit reproducibility FMD response glyceryl trinitrate 14.7 17.6%, respectively. Assuming 80% an α 0.05, eight subjects matched controls would be required, parallel designed study, detect absolute 2.5% change FMD. summary, we have developed semiautomated vascular system will improve clinical intervention small changes arterial diameter.