Medical Imaging Informatics

Medical Imaging Informatics addresses the problem of image and information overload. Research in this area aims to develop systems that make efficient use of information and communication technology to facilitate the radiological interpretation process.

The number of images available to radiologists is growing rapidly and has outpaced the human ability to process them. Computational aids are required to filter the large number of images and to focus the radiologist’s attention on diagnostically interesting events.

With our research in image informatics, we aim to improve image-based disease detection and diagnosis and monitoring of treatment outcomes through extensive use of information and communication technology.

We are investigating novel methods for automating the process of image interpretation. We combine knowledge based and model-based approaches to improve the processing and the analysis of medical images. We also make extensive use of machine learning to acquire rules for detecting the presence of various diseases patterns.

In addition to image analysis and interpretation we are actively involved in the development of tools for modelling and 3D visualisation of medical data. The results of image analysis are best presented in the form of a 3D model of the imaged anatomy that can be manipulated interactively.

The members of our group are researchers and students from the Centre of Health Informatics, the School of Computer Science and Engineering, UNSW, radiologists from I-MED/MIA NETWORK Australia. Our Industry partner is Philips Medical Systems Australasia.

Current research projects include: