Speckle Noise Removal Based on Adaptive Total Variation Model.

For removing the speckle noise in ultrasound images, researchers have proposed many models based on energy minimization methods. At the same time, traditional models have some disadvantages, such as, the low speed of energy diffusion which can not preserve the sharp edges. In order to overcome those disadvantages, we introduce an adaptive total variation model to deal with speckle noise in ultrasound image for retaining the fine detail effectively and enhancing the speed of energy diffusion. Firstly, a new convex function is employed as regularization term in the adaptive total variation model. Secondly, the diffusion properties of the new model are analyzed through the physical characteristics of local coordinates. The new energy model has different diffusion velocities in different gradient regions. Numerical experimental results show that the proposed model for speckle noise removal is superior to traditional models, not only in visual effect, but also in quantitative measures.