Validation of a carotid intima-media thickness border detection program for use in an office setting

Background: A unique semiautomated border detection program (BDP) designed for use on a personal computer was evaluated to determine whether: (1) carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) measurements were bioequivalent to a reference laboratory, and (2) it would allow a novice (NOV) reader with no medical training to accurately and reproducibly measure CIMT. Methods: Far-wall CIMT was measured blindly and in duplicate by an experienced and NOV reader using BDP and by a reference laboratory. Results: Mean CIMT using RDP was bioequivalent to the reference laboratory (two 1-sided T-test, P < .05) with small absolute differences (experienced 0.011 +/- 0.004 mm, NOV 0.022 +/- 0.004 mm). Reproducibility was high, with small coefficients of variation when used by either the experienced (3.1%) or NOV (7.8%) reader. Conclusion: CIMT measurements using BDP were accuracy rate and reproducible. it was mastered easily by a NOV reader and appeared suitable for use in an office setting.