Automated 3D measurements of the aortic length using the Hough transform

Methods The conventional 2D method is based on a single view of the aorta which is combined with phase contrast acquisitions to define the starting and stopping points of the arch, where velocities are measured. For the 3D measurement, SSFP axial and sagittal slices including the aortic arch are considered. Two operators measured the 3D length of the arch by delimiting markers on the different views. The visual control was supplemented by a 3D representation of the arch. Independently, the Hough transform adapted to circular shapes was used to define the lumen centers on the same views and to thus automatically define markers in the aortic arch.