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Open-Source Image Analysis Software Yields Reproducible CT Measures of Longissimus Muscle Area and Density in Sheep
Jeryl Jones1, Anna Brewer2, Susan Duckett1
1Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA.
Summary
This study developed a reproducible computed tomography (CT) protocol for measuring sheep longissimus muscles (LM). The standardized method shows good to excellent reproducibility for LM area and density measurements.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary anatomy
- Medical imaging
- Animal science
Background:
- Longissimus muscles (LM) in sheep are crucial for meat quality research and studying spinal diseases.
- Computed tomography (CT) is used for paraspinal muscle characterization, but reproducibility data with open-source software is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a standardized CT protocol for measuring sheep LM area and density.
- To assess the reproducibility of these CT measurements.
Main Methods:
- Thoracolumbar CT scans from four sheep across five time points were analyzed.
- Six observers applied a standardized protocol to measure LM transverse area (cm²) and density (HU) in triplicate.
- Reproducibility was assessed using coefficients of variation (CVs) and ANOVA.
Main Results:
- Average CVs were good to excellent (<10%) for 4 of 6 observers across all variables.
- No significant differences in average CVs were found among observers for 3 of 4 variables (ANOVA, p > .05).
Conclusions:
- A standardized CT protocol provides reproducible measurements of sheep LM area and density.
- This protocol can be reliably used with open-source software for research in animal science and veterinary medicine.
