Most medical images are presented in two dimensions by intensity on a film or electronic media such as video. The display process of transforming the recorded image into a viewable image on these media fails to transmit some or much of the useful information in the recorded image. We propose research to improve this information transfer in the 2D display process. To achieve this improvement, we will accomplish the following objectives: (1) Develop and prove a methodology for standardizing the display system so that, independent of the display device, changes in display driving intensity produce a predictable perceptual result, and one that optimizes the effect of contrast enhancement methods designed to maximally transmit diagnostic information. (2) Determine the display scale sensitivity that is optimal for presentation of medical images or classes of medical images, as a function of target sharpness and signal to noise ratio. (3) Study the effect of image structure on the contrast required for feature discrimination in medical images. This study will not only produce results necessary for achieving the other objectives, but it will also develop further understanding of the process of perception of medical images that can lead to other improvements in imaging, processing, and display.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
1R01CA039059-01A1
Application #
3177768
Study Section
(SSS)
Project Start
1985-07-01
Project End
1988-06-30
Budget Start
1985-07-01
Budget End
1986-06-30
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
1985
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Department
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
078861598
City
Chapel Hill
State
NC
Country
United States
Zip Code
27599
Pizer, S M; Johnston, R E; Rogers, D C et al. (1987) Effective presentation of medical images on an electronic display station. Radiographics 7:1267-74
Sherouse, G W; Rosenman, J; McMurry, H L et al. (1987) Automatic digital contrast enhancement of radiotherapy films. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 13:801-6