Graph cuts segmentation using an elliptical shape prior

We present a graph cuts-based image segmentation technique that incorporates an elliptical shape prior. Inclusion of this shape constraint restricts the solution space of the segmentation result, increasing robustness to misleading information that results from noise, weak boundaries, and clutter. We argue that combining a shape prior with a graph cuts method suggests an iterative approach that updates an intermediate result to the desired solution. We first present the details of our method and then demonstrate its effectiveness in segmenting vessels and lymph nodes from pelvic magnetic resonance images, as well as human faces.