Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and program

An image processing method for using OCT to process a plurality of cross-sectional images obtained by moving an imaging core inside a catheter in an axial direction while rotating the imaging core, the method comprising:

• causing a memory to store data relating to the cross-sectional images in association with position information in the axial direction when each of the cross-sectional images is acquired;
• extracting a first cross-sectional image in which a disappearance section enabling determination that there is a disappeared portion of an external elastic membrane included in a vascular tomographic image starts, and a second cross-sectional image in which the disappearance section ends, in the plurality of cross-sectional images;
• and
• acquiring the position information in the axial direction of the first cross-sectional image and the second cross-sectional image from the memory, and of calculating an ablation range influenced by ablation at a position associated with the disappearance section, based on a difference in the acquired position information in the axial direction.

An image processing method for using OCT to process a plurality of cross-sectional images obtained by moving an imaging core inside a catheter in an axial direction while rotating the imaging core, the method comprising:

• storing data relating to the cross-sectional images in association with position information in the axial direction when each of the cross-sectional images is acquired;
• extracting a first cross-sectional image in which a disappearance section enabling determination that there is a disappeared portion of an external elastic membrane included in a vascular tomographic image starts, and a second cross-sectional image in which the disappearance section ends, in the plurality of cross-sectional images;
• and
• acquiring the position information in the axial direction of the first cross-sectional image and the second cross-sectional image, and for calculating an ablation range influenced by ablation at a position associated with the disappearance section, based on a difference in the acquired position information in the axial direction.