Multigradient field active contour for multilayer detection of ultrasound rectal wall image

This paper presents a novel multigradient field active contour algorithm with an extended ability for multiple object delineation, which overcomes some limitations of ordinary active contour models. One of the aims is to apply this technique for multilayer boundary detection of ultrasound rectal wall image, which is important in colorectal clinical diagnosis for rectal tumor staging. The core part in this algorithm is the proposal of multigradient vector field concept, which is used as image forces for alternate constraints on deformation of the active contour. Its application to the ultrasound rectal wall image is also given to illustrate the multiple layer detection ability.