Computer-assisted diagnosis by temporal subtraction in postoperative brain tumor patients

Abstract Rationale and objectives To introduce and evaluate a novel, image fusion-based technique that can be used to compare the findings of primary and control brain magnetic resonance imaging scans, with special attention to the differences found in this comparison. Materials and methods A new technique named “colored difference mapping” was applied to the brain examinations of five patients. The possible changes in the magnetic resonance imaging findings were analyzed by the colored difference mapping technique and by using conventional film reading and the results were compared. Results Colored difference mapping accurately depicts the differences between successive magnetic resonance images and reveals small changes that are difficult to perceive in a visual evaluation. Conclusion Colored difference mapping is suitable for comparison of images between two different radiologic examinations and helps to show even minimal changes in brain tissues.