[Automated recognition and identification of soft tissue landmarks in cephalematric analysis]

OBJECTIVE: To establish the automatic x-ray cephalometric analysis system to provide the convenient and reliable method for clinical cephalometric analysis. METHODS The graphics, image processing techniques and artificial intelligence was usedand the computer digital image processing and pattern recognition such as median filtering, histogram equalization, Laplacian and Canny edge detection were introduced. To provide the templates of the variable anatomical structures, which could automatically outline the contour lines of the hard and soft tissues. Thirty five cases were measured and analysied with the system. RESULTS: The computer measurements had the same consistency with hand measurements. The system could calculate more precisely and save more time and energy than other systems. CONCLUSION: The system can supply a more convenient and precise measurement for cephalometry.