Research Paper

A Three-Dimensional Quantitative Analysis of Restenosis Parameters after Balloon Angioplasty: Comparison between Semi-Automatic Computer-Assisted Planimetry and Stereology
Koen J. Salu^a,b, Michiel W.M. Knaapen^c, Johan M. Bosmans^a, Chris J. Vrints^a, Hidde Bult<sup>b

a</sup>Divisions of Cardiology and
^bPharmacology, University of Antwerp (UIA), Wilrijk, and
^cHistoGeneX, Antwerp, Belgium

Address of Corresponding Author

J Vasc Res 2002;39:437-446 (DOI: 10.1159/000064514)

  Key Words

• Cavalieri
• Point counting
• Planimetry
• Restenosis
• 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.

Copyright © 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel

  Author Contacts

Dr. Hidde Bult
Division of Pharmacology, University of Antwerp (UIA)
Universiteitsplein 1
B-2610 Wilrijk (Belgium)
Tel. +32 3 8202738, Fax +32 3 8202567, E-Mail hidde.bult@ua.ac.be

  Article Information

Received: Received: July 11, 2001
Accepted after revision: March 19, 2002
Number of Print Pages : 10
Number of Figures : 3, Number of Tables : 5, Number of References : 35