Computer Electronic Radiography For Early Detection Of Vascular Disease

A computerized electronic radiography system is being developed for early non-invasive detection, characterization and quantification of atherosclerotic lesions. The method uses a conventional x-ray source combined with a solid state detector system which is coupled to a digital computer for processing and display of the radiographic information. The computer stores and optimizes the image for improved interpretation of the image detail. The computer assisted image enhancement, vessel localization and pattern analysis is an integral part of the instrumentation system. The system has been evaluated in preliminary studies to determine contrast sensitivity, radiation exposure, resolution and diagnostic quality. Even at this early developmental stage of this technique, very low contrasts have been visualized. The arterial images obtained with intravenous injections in dogs have demonstrated the potential of this method for the non-invasive detection and quantification of atherosclerotic disease.