RESUMO
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES: This article provides a survey of segmentation methods for medical images. Usually, classification of segmentation methods is done based on the approaches adopted and the domain of application. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This survey is conducted on the recent segmentation methods used in biomedical image processing and explores the methods useful for better segmentation. A critical appraisal of the current status of semiautomated and automated methods is made for the segmentation of anatomical medical images emphasizing the advantages and disadvantages. Computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) used by radiologists as a second opinion has become one of the major research areas in medical imaging and diagnostic radiology. A picture archiving communication system (PACS) is an integrated workflow system for managing images and related data that is designed to streamline operations throughout the whole patient care delivery process. RESULTS: By using PACS, the medical image interpretation may be changed from conventional hard-copy images to soft-copy studies viewed on the systems workstations. CONCLUSION: The automatic segmentations assist the doctors in making quick diagnosis. The CAD need not be comparable to that of physicians, but is surely complementary.