Burn characterization using object-oriented hyperspectral image classification

This paper presents a new approach based on hyperspectral imaging combined with an object-oriented classification method that allows the generation of burn depth classification maps facilitating easier characterization of burns. Hyperspectral images of 14 patients diagnosed with burns on the upper and lower limbs were acquired using a pushbroom hyperspectral imaging system. The images were analyzed using an object-oriented classification approach that uses objects with specific spectral, textural and spatial attributes as the minimum unit for classifying information. The method performance was evaluated in terms of overall accuracy, sensitivity, precision and specificity computed from the confusion matrix. The results revealed that the approach proposed in this study performed well in differentiating burn classes with a high level of overall accuracy (95.99% +/- 0.60%), precision (97.30% +/- 2.46%), sensitivity (97.23% +/- 3.02%) and specificity (98.02% +/- 1.98%). In conclusion, the object-based approach for burns hyperspectral images classification can provide maps that can help surgeons identify with better precision different depths of burn wounds.

Automated summary

This paper presents a new approach that combines hyperspectral imaging with an object-oriented classification method to generate burn depth classification maps, facilitating easier characterization of burns. The approach was evaluated using hyperspectral images of 14 patients with burns, and the results showed high overall accuracy, precision, sensitivity, and specificity in differentiating burn classes. The object-based approach for burns hyperspectral images classification can provide maps that help surgeons identify different depths of burn wounds better.