Quantitative coronary arteriography with the aid of high resolution digital imaging

For a reproducible and accurate computer-aided analysis of coronary arteriograms, image digitizing devices which offer a minimal geometrical resolution of 1024×1024 pixels are required. A newly developed digital CCD (charge coupled device) camera suitable for this purpose is presented. It offers a geometrical resolution of 1300 by 1024 pixels and a dynamic range of 65 dB, thereby allowing for an optimal digitization of 35 mm angiographic cinefilm. The CCD sensor used in this camera provides a maximum frame rate of 10 frames/s. However, for a future direct digitization of the optical output of the image intensifier which will allow for a circumvention of the 35 mm film, frame rates in excess of 30 frames/s are required. A newer sensor which yields frame rates of up to 40 frames/s has therefore been implemented in the camera system