Abstract

This dissertation could not have been completed without the generous assistance of many others. Chiefly among those is my adviser, Dr. Robert L. Galloway, Jr., who selflessly shared his time, knowledge, and resources. Dr. Bob’s constant encouragement and support have been a source of strength throughout my tenure at Vanderbilt. I sincerely thank Dr. J. Michael Fitzpatrick and Dr. Benoit M. Dawant for their assistance and suggestions that helped to improve the quality of this dissertation and Dr. Cynthia B. Paschal and Dr. Robert J. Maciunas for providing valuable advice and support. It was a privilege to learn from and work with each of my committee members. The acquisition of clinical data would not have been possible without the support of the Departments of Neurological Surgery and Radiology and Radiological Sciences. In particular, Dr. Peter E. Konrad gave much of his limited free time and support. I thank Srikanth Gadamsetty for his help in the operating room and all the residents, nurses, and staff who graciously helped in so many ways. It has been a pleasure to work with my fellow graduate students in the Snarl and Image Processing labs. Calvin Maurer, Georges Aboutanos, Jim Stefansic, Steve Hartmann, Dave