Application of a conditional digital erosion operator in automated segmentation of the anatomy in MR images of the lower spine

Dennis P Pfeifer, Michael P Chwialkowski, Peter E. Shile, Robert W. Parkey, Ronald M Peshock

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

In binary image processing, digital erosion has been used successfully for the removal of small sporadic elements from images, at the sacrifice of losing edge detail in objects of interest. Typically an erosion operation is followed by a dilation process generating the familiar opening operation. This step, which attempts to restore the original edge information, works well in many applications where the edge detail of the original object is unimportant. In this paper a conditional digital erosion operation designed specifically for the processing of inherently noisy magnetic resonance (MR) images of the lower spine is presented. This operation in essence preforms a test for the removal of entire objects prior to the erosion. The method was applied to edge enhanced images and resulted in the elimination of edges of insufficient span, regardless of their thickness or absolute length. The developed method has proven useful for the removal of sporadic noise, and the retention of small anatomic edge boundaries in edge enhanced MR images of the lower spine. The results of images processed with the operator favorably compare with those obtained from morphological (Minkowski) open and close operations.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
EditorsPaul D. Gader
PublisherPubl by Int Soc for Optical Engineering
Pages186-192
Number of pages7
Volume1350
StatePublished - 1990
EventImage Algebra and Morphological Image Processing - San Diego, CA, USA
Duration: Jul 10 1990Jul 12 1990

Other

OtherImage Algebra and Morphological Image Processing
CitySan Diego, CA, USA
Period7/10/907/12/90

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • Condensed Matter Physics

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Application of a conditional digital erosion operator in automated segmentation of the anatomy in MR images of the lower spine'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this