3D Shape Analysis of Intracranial Aneurysms

This article discusses the development of a new index used for determining intracranial aneurysms' proximity to rupture. A 3-D application of a parameter called the Writhe number is used instead of mere shape observations to characterize the risk of individual aneurysms. This number is the measure of the amount of “twisting force” acting on an object. the twisting force is measured in points along the entire surface of an object, and symmetrical objects have zero writhe numbers and zero net twisting forces at all surface points. This parameter can be applied to aneurysms to determine how close the aneurysm is to equilibrium at each point on its surface. the larger the range of "twisting force" values, and the stronger the “twisting force" is on the surface, the greater the chances that the aneurysm will rupture. Randomness of the writhe number across an aneurysm surface is also a good indicator of rupture. This force is calculated with 3-D computer triangle mesh models, and will be an important tool to study the progression of aneurysms and predict their rupture more accurately.

This article was extremely interesting, because it describes the first application of a 3-D application of writhe's number to determine the danger of different aneurysms. There can be increased detection of incidental aneurysms by non-invasive imaging, which will improve patient's quality of life and reduce deaths by aneurysm rupture.

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