Development of image processing method for quantitative analysis of thrombus formation process in the microcirculation

Abstract

Using a intravascular thrombus formation model produced by irradiation of the filtered light and intravascualr administration of fluorescein sodium, we developed an image processing technique to study the dynamic process of thrombus formation in vivo. Recorded video images were converted into the digital images and analyzed by an IBM PC/386 personal computer. To improve the quality of digitized images we utilized the digital filtering and smoothing method. We then used segmental analysis method and differential histogram to distinguish the regions of the blood flow and the thrombus. The image processing technique thus developed enabled measurement of time course changes of thrombus size. In animal experiments we found the thrombus growth and separation were balanced during the procedure of thrombus formation. This method is useful for studying mechanism of thrombus growth and evaluating the pharmacological effects of anti-platelet aggregating drugs.