title: A three-dimensional quantitative analysis of restenosis parameters after balloon angioplasty: comparison between semi-automatic computer-assisted planimetry and stereology.
abstract: Semi-automatic computer-assisted planimetry is often used for the quantification of restenosis parameters after balloon angioplasty although it is a time-consuming method. Moreover, slicing the artery to enable analysis of two-dimensional (2-D) images leads to a loss of information since the vessel structure is three-dimensional (3-D). Cavalieri's principle uses systematic random sampling allowing 3-D quantification. This study compares the accuracy and efficiency of planimetry versus point-counting measurements on restenosis parameters after balloon angioplasty and investigates the use of Cavalieri's principle for 3-D volume quantification. Bland and Altman plots showed good agreement between planimetry and point counting for the 2-D and 3-D quantification of lumen, internal elastic lamina (IEL) and external elastic lamina (EEL), with a slightly smaller agreement for intima and media. Mean values and induced coefficients of variation were similar for both methods for all parameters. Point counting induced a 6% error in its 3-D quantification, which is negligible in view of the biological variation (>90%) among animals. However, point counting was 3 times faster compared to planimetry, improving its efficiency. This study shows that combining Cavalieri's principle with point counting is a precise and efficient method for the 3-D quantification of restenosis parameters after balloon angioplasty.
authors.affiliation: Division of Cardiology, University of Antwerp (UIA), Wilrijk, Belgium.
authors.forename: Koen J
authors.initials: KJ
authors.lastname: Salu
authors.forename: Michiel W M
authors.initials: MW
authors.lastname: Knaapen
authors.forename: Johan M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Bosmans
authors.forename: Chris J
authors.initials: CJ
authors.lastname: Vrints
authors.forename: Hidde
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Bult
mesh_terms: D000800:Angioplasty, Balloon / Q000379:methods; D000818:Animals; D001331:Automation; D023903:Coronary Restenosis / Q000473:pathology* / Q000628:therapy; D007090:Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D008297:Male; D011817:Rabbits