Validation of a carotid intima-media thickness border detection program for use in an office setting

J Am Soc Echocardiogr. 2006 Feb;19(2):223-8. doi: 10.1016/j.echo.2005.09.006.

Abstract

Background: A unique semiautomated border detection program (BDP) designed for use on a personal computer was evaluated to determine whether: (1) carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) measurements were bioequivalent to a reference laboratory; and (2) it would allow a novice (NOV) reader with no medical training to accurately and reproducibly measure CIMT.

Methods: Far-wall CIMT was measured blindly and in duplicate by an experienced and NOV reader using BDP and by a reference laboratory.

Results: Mean CIMT using BDP was bioequivalent to the reference laboratory (two 1-sided T-test, P < .05) with small absolute differences (experienced 0.011 +/- 0.004 mm, NOV 0.022 +/- 0.004 mm). Reproducibility was high, with small coefficients of variation when used by either the experienced (3.1%) or NOV (7.8%) reader.

Conclusion: CIMT measurements using BDP were accurate and reproducible. It was mastered easily by a NOV reader and appeared suitable for use in an office setting.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Validation Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Algorithms
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Atherosclerosis / complications
  • Atherosclerosis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Carotid Arteries / diagnostic imaging*
  • Carotid Stenosis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Carotid Stenosis / etiology
  • Echocardiography / methods*
  • Family Practice / methods
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement / methods
  • Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / methods*
  • Male
  • Observer Variation
  • Pattern Recognition, Automated / methods*
  • Physicians' Offices
  • Population Surveillance / methods
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Tunica Intima / diagnostic imaging*