Multi-feature gradient vector flow snakes for adaptive segmentation of the ultrasound images of breast cancer.

Highlights: [•] A new version of generalized gradient flow (GGVF) snakes involving multiple features of the vector field. [•] Polynomial diffusion based on prescribed clusters of the edge map. [•] A new, directional (orientation) feature integrated into the GGVF snake model. [•] Preprocessing based on hierarchical clustering. [•] A large series of numerical experiments with an in-depth analysis and tests against recent modifications of GGVF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]