Method for Assessing Reproducibility of Tractography Methods : Comparison Between Algorithms Used in Clinical Routine.

Fatima Tensaouti^1,2, Ihssan Lahlou², Jean Albert Lotterie^1,2, Isabelle Berry^1,2

The aim of the study is to evaluate the fiber tracking strategy in terms of acquisition schemes in conjunction with four algorithms: three deterministic (tensor deflection, tensor lines, streamlines) and statistical algorithm. The pyramidal tract was investigated in 12 healthy subjects. Quantitative comparison between tracts was calculated by using boolean operators on tractus volumes. Inter-exam reproducibility was evaluated by comparing fiber tracking results from the same acquisition scheme on the first and second exam. The study highlights growing reliability of reproducibility results based on the number of directions employed during the acquisition and the method of tractography used.