University of Virginia Patent Foundation

Center for Innovative Technology

Michael B Merickel

James R Brookeman

John P Mugler, Iii

Carlos R Ayers

Ann H Adams

Charles S Carman

There is disclosed an image processing, pattern recognition and computer graphics system and method for the noninvasive identification and evaluation of female breast cancer including the characteristic of the boundary thereof using multidimensional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). The system and method classifies the tissue using a Fisher linear classifier followed by a refinement to show the boundary shape and whether the surface of the carcinoma is lobulated or spiculated. The results are a high information content display which aids in the diagnosis and analysis of breast cancer and to assist in any surgical or other remedial planning. The high information content display also assists in the assessment of the effectiveness of therapies showing any reduction or increase in the size of the carcinoma.

System and method for the noninvasive identification and display of

There is disclosed an image processing, pattern recognition and computer graphics system and method for the noninvasive identification and evaluation of atheroscelerosis using multidimensional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Functional information, such as plaque tissue type, is combined with structure information, represented by the 3-D vessel and plaque structure, into a single composite 3-D display. The system and method is performed with the application of unsupervised pattern recognition techniques and rapid 3-D display methods appropriate to the simultaneous display of multiple data classes. The results are a high information content display which aids in the diagnosis and analysis of the atherosclerotic disease process, and permits detailed and quantitative studies to assess the effectiveness of therapies, such as drug, exercise and dietary regimens.

Noninvasive medical imaging system and method for the identification and

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Charlottesville, VA, United States of America

Michael B Merickel