A road map to manual segmentation of cerebral structures

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Comparative Anatomy
• Scientific Methodology

Background:

• Manual segmentation is crucial for image analysis in neuroimaging and comparative anatomy.
• The process is often repetitive and time-consuming, especially when performed by students.
• Advances in neuroimaging necessitate updated segmentation methodologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a roadmap for optimizing manual segmentation techniques.
• To improve the process and reporting of manual segmentation procedures.
• To enhance the internal and external validity of research studies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on manual segmentation best practices.
• Development of a general roadmap for technique optimization.
• Creation of a checklist for verifying critical segmentation steps.

Main Results:

• A structured approach to manual segmentation is proposed.
• Guidelines for clear and comprehensive reporting of segmentation procedures are outlined.
• A practical checklist is provided for adherence to best practices.

Conclusions:

• Optimized manual segmentation improves research reproducibility and data harmonization.
• Standardized reporting of segmentation methods is essential for scientific validity.
• The proposed roadmap and checklist support researchers in conducting and reporting high-quality manual segmentation studies.