US 5,782,762 A · Method and system for producing interactive, three-dimensional renderings of selected body organs having hollow lumens to enable simulated movement through the lumen

Abstract

A method and system are provided for effecting interactive, three-dimensional renderings of selected body organs for purposes of medical observation and diagnosis. A series of CT images of the selected body organs are acquired. The series of CT images is stacked to form a three-dimensional volume file. To facilitate interactive three-dimensional rendering, the three-dimensional volume file may be subjected to an optional dataset reduction procedure to reduce pixel resolution and/or to divide the three-dimensional volume file into selected subvolumes. From a selected volume or subvolume, the image of a selected body organ is segmented or isolated. A wireframe model of the segmented organ image is then generated to enable interactive, three-dimensional rendering of the selected organ.

Claims156

Dependent claims

A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest;
and
C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display for interaction with internal surfaces of the segmented region of interest, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

1 more element

A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical representing the selected region of interest;
C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment;
and
D. reducing the size of the volume of data before rendering the image of the segmented region of interest in the interactive three-dimensional display.

2 more elements

A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the step of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest, wherein the selected region of interest comprises an air column within a body organ;
and
C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

1 more element

A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional images representing at series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest, wherein the region of interest comprises an air-tissue interface at a body organ;
and
C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

1 more element

A method for interactively displaying three dimensional Structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the segmented region of interest, wherein the step of segmenting the selected region of interest comprises a thresholding step for determining threshold values corresponding to the selected the physical property to isolate the selected region of interest;
C. forming an isosurface wireframe model of the isolated selected region of interest;
and
D. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

2 more elements

A method for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;
B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest, wherein the region of interest comprises an air-bone interface;
and
C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display herein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

1 more element

A method for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;
B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest;
and
C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment, wherein the rendering step includes the steps of splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible.

1 more element

A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest, the step of segmenting the selected region of interest comprising:
1. a thresholding step for determining threshold values corresponding to the selected values of the physical property to isolate the selected region of interest, the thresholding step comprising:
a. a threshold selection step for selecting the threshold range corresponding to the selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
b. a threshold adjustment step for adjusting the threshold values to provide the threshold range for isolating the region of interest;
and
C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display.

5 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;
b. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display for interaction with internal surfaces of the segmented region of interest, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

2 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. a cleansing step for cleansing the colon;
b. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;
c. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
d. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
e. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

3 more elements

A method for interactive displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. a colon preparation step for inflating the colon with gas;
b. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;
c. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
d. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
e. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

3 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;
b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the region of interest comprises an air-tissue interface;
and
d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

2 more elements

A method for interactively displaying colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;
b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
c. a data reduction step for reducing the size of the volume of data;
d. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
e. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

3 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;
b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment, wherein the rendering step comprises simulating movement along a line which passes along the center of the lumen of the colon.

2 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;
b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional image in computer memory;
c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment, wherein the rendering step comprises splitting the colon open in lengthwise sections and displaying the split open colon so that inner surfaces of the split open colon are visible.

2 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;
b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume;
data is formed by staking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of property representing the region of interest, wherein the segmentation step comprises a step of determining colon wall thickness;
and
d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional displays therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

3 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;
b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the region of interest comprises an air column;
and
d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

2 more elements

A method for interactively aging a colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;
b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the segmentation step comprises a thresholding step for determining threshold values corresponding to the selected values of the physical property to isolate the region of interest;
d. a wireframe model forming step for forming an isosurface wireframe model of the isolated region of interest;
and
e. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

3 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

A. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;
B. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
C. a data reduction step for reducing the size of the volume of data before rendering the segmented region of interest, wherein the size of the volume of data is reduced to less than about 10 megabytes;
D. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
E. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display.

3 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising;

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;
b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display for interaction with internal surfaces of the segmented region of interest, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

2 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired, wherein the image acquisition step comprises a patient preparation step wherein a patient is administered a nonionic intravenous iodinated contrast bolus;
b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

2 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;
b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the region of interest comprises an air column;
and
d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

2 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;
b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
c. a data reduction step for reducing the size of the volume of data;
d. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected valves of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
e. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

3 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising;

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of physical property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;
b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of physical property representing the region of interest;
and
a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest if rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment, wherein a portion of the tracheobronchial airway is rendered semitransparent.

2 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;
b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the region of interest comprises an air-tissue interface;
and
d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

2 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the tracheobronchial three is acquired;
b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking a series of two-dimensional images in contour memory;
c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the segmentation step comprises a thresholding step for determining threshold values corresponding to the selected values of the physical property to isolate the region of interest;
d. a wireframe model forming step for forming an isosurface wireframe model of the isolated region of interest;
and
e. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

3 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

A. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical Property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;
B. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
C. a data reduction step for reducing the size of the volume of data before rendering the segmented region of interest, the reduction step comprising creating a subvolume of data, wherein the subvolume comprises the mediastinum;
D. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
E. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display.

3 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

A. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical Property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;
B. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
C. a data reduction step for reducing the size of the volume of data before rendering the segmented region of interest, wherein the size of the data is reduced to less than about 10 megabytes;
D. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
E. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display.

3 more elements

A system for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;
b. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
c. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display for interaction with internal surfaces of the segmented region of interest, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional, environment.

1 more element

A system for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional-volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
b. reduction means for reducing the size of the volume of data;
c. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
d. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

2 more elements

A system for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
b. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing he region of interest, wherein the segmentation means comprises a thresholding means for determining a threshold range used to isolate the region of interest;
c. means for producing a wireframe model of the isolated region of interest;
and
d. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

2 more elements

A system for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;
b. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest front the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
c. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment;
and
d. assignment means for assigning at least one point of interest along the segmented region of interest rendered in the displayed three-dimensional display.

2 more elements

A system for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
b. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
c. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment;
and
d. selection means for selecting a point which lies within the segmented region of interest and displaying a two-dimensional image which lies in a plane passing through the selected point.

2 more elements

A system for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;
b. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
c. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment, wherein the rendering means includes transparency means for rendering a portion of the region of interest semi-transparent.

1 more element

A system for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;
b. segmetation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the property representing the region of interest;
and
c. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interractive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment, wherein the rendering means includes splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying means for displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible.

1 more element

A system for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;
b. implementation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
c. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment, wherein the rendering means comprises simulation means for simulating movement along a center while through the segmented region of interest of the three-dimensional display.

1 more element

A system for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising:

A. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
B. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the segmentation means comprises:
1. a thresholding means for determining a threshold range used to isolate the region of interest, wherein the thresholding means comprises:
a. a threshold selection means for selecting the threshold range;
and
b. a threshold adjustment means for adjusting the threshold range;
and
C. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display.

5 more elements

A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest, wherein the step of segmenting the selected region of interest comprises a region growing step;
and
C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display.

1 more element

A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest;
and
C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, wherein the rendering step includes the steps of splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections along a line which passes along the center of the three-dimensional display and displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible, wherein the step of splitting the three-dimensional display open along a line which passes along the center of the three-dimensional display includes the steps of:
a. selecting a seed point which lies within the region of interest;
b. determining a plane of minimum area through the region of interest that passes through the seed point;
c. determining the center point of the region of interest that is dissected by the plane of minimum area;
and
d. selecting a point which is spaced from the center point in a perpendicular direction relative to the plane of minimum area.

6 more elements

A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest;
and
C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, wherein the rendering step includes the steps of splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections along a line which passes along the center of the three-dimensional display and displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible, wherein the step of splitting the three-dimensional display open along a line which passes along the center of the three-dimensional display includes the steps of:
a. iteratively eroding the region of interest until all of the region of interest disappears, thereby determining the last portion of the region of interest to disappear;
and
b. connecting the last portion of the region of interest to disappear by erosion.

4 more elements

A method for displaying three-dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

a. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
b. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest;
and
c. rendering the segmented region of interest in a three-dimensional display including the steps of splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections, therein producing an interactive, cross-sectional, three-dimensional rendering and displaying the interactive, cross-sectional, three-dimensional rendering so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible.

1 more element

A method for displaying three-dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one Physical Property associated with a three dimensional body;
B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest;
and
C. rendering the segmented region of interest in a three-dimensional display including the steps of splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible, wherein the splitting step includes the step of splitting the three-dimensional display open alone a line which passes along the center of the three-dimensional display, wherein the step of splitting the three-dimensional display open along a line which passes along the center of the three-dimensional display includes the steps of:
1. selecting a seed point which lies within the region of interest;
2. determining a plane of minimum area through the region of interest that passes through the seed point;
3. determining the center point of the region of interest that is dissected by the plane of minimum area;
and
4. selecting a point which is spaced from the center point in a perpendicular direction relative to the plane of minimum area.

6 more elements

A method for displaying three-dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;
B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical Property representing the selected region of interest;
and
C. rendering the segmented region of interest in a three-dimensional display including the steps of splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible, wherein the splitting step includes the step of splitting the three-dimensional display open along a line which passes along the center of the three-dimensional display, wherein the step of splitting the three-dimensional display open along a line which passes along the center of the three-dimensional display includes the steps of:
1. iteratively eroding the region of interest until all of the region of interest disappears, thereby determining the last portions of the region of interest to disappear;
and
2. connecting the last portions of the region of interest to disappear by erosion.

4 more elements

A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest;
C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment;
and
D. simulating movement along a center line through the segmented region of interest of the virtual three-dimensional environment.

2 more elements

A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one Physical Property associated with a three dimensional body;
B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest;
C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display;
and
D. simulating movement along a center line through the segmented region of interest of the three-dimensional display, wherein the step of simulating movement along the center line through the segmented region of interest of the three-dimensional display includes the steps of:
1. selecting a seed point which lies within the region of interest;
2. determining a plane of minimum area through the region of interest that passes through the seed point;
3. determining the center point of the region of interest that is dissected by the plane of minimum area;
and
4. selecting a point which is spaced from the center point in a perpendicular direction relative to the plane of minimum area.

7 more elements

A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest;
C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display;
and
D. simulating movement along a center line through the segmented region of interest of the three-dimensional display, wherein the step of simulating movement along the center line through the segmented region of interest of the three-dimensional display includes the steps of:
1. iteratively eroding the region of interest until all of the region of interest disappears, thereby determining the last portions of the region of interest to disappear;
and
2. connecting the last portions to disappear by erosion.

5 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

A. an opacification step for homogeneously opacifying feces;
B. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired after the opacification step;
C. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
D. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
E. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display.

3 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

A. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;
B. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
C. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, the segmentation step comprising a thresholding step for determining a threshold range corresponding to the selected values of the physical property to isolate the region of interest, wherein the thresholding step comprises:
1. a threshold selection step for selecting the threshold range corresponding to the selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
2. a threshold adjustment step for adjusting the threshold range to provide the threshold range for isolating the region of interest;
and
D. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display.

5 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

A. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;
B. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
C. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the segmentation step comprises a region growing step;
and
D. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display.

2 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

A. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;
B. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional image in computer memory;
C. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, the segmentation step comprises a thresholding step for determining a threshold range corresponding to the selected values of the physical property to isolate the region of interest, wherein the thresholding step comprises:
1. a threshold selection step for selecting the threshold range corresponding to the selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
2. a threshold adjustment step for adjusting the threshold range to provide the threshold range for isolating the region of interest;
and
D. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display.

5 more elements

A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

A. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;
B. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;
C. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the segmentation step comprises a region growing step;
and
D. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display.

2 more elements

A system for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising:

A. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;
B. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
C. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, wherein the rendering means includes splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying means for displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three dimensional display are visible, wherein the splitting means includes center line splitting means for splitting open the three-dimensional display of the segmented region of interest along a line which passes along a center of the three-dimensional display of the segmented region of interest, wherein the center line splitting means includes:
1. selection means for selecting a seed point which lies within the region of interest;
2. plane determining means for determining a plane of minimum area through the region of interest that passes through the seed point;
3. center point determining means for determining the center point of the region of interest that is dissected by the plane of minimum area;
and
4. point selecting means for selecting a new point which is spaced from the previous center point in a perpendicular direction relative to the plane of minimum area.

6 more elements

A system for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising:

A. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
B. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
C. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, wherein the rendering means includes splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying means for displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three dimensional display are visible, wherein the splitting means includes center line splitting means for splitting open the three-dimensional display of the segmented region of interest along a line which passes along a center of the three-dimensional display of the segmented region of interest, wherein the center line splitting means includes:
1. erosion means for iteratively eroding the region of interest until all of the region of interest disappears, thereby determining the last portions of the region of interest to disappear;
and
2. connection means for connecting the last portions of the region of interest to disappear by erosion.

4 more elements

A system for displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three dimensional volume of data from a series of two dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;
b. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
c. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in a three-dimensional display, including splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections therein producing an interactive, cross-sectional three-dimensional rendering and displaying means for displaying the three-dimensional rendering so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible.

1 more element

A system for displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

A. volume formation means for forming a three dimensional volume of data from a series of two dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;
B. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
C. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in a three-dimensional display, including splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying means for displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible, wherein the splitting means includes center line splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open along a center line through the three-dimensional display of the segmented region of interest, wherein the center line splitting means includes:
1. selection means for selecting a seed point which lies within the region of interest;
2. plane determining means for determining a plane of minimum area through the segmented region of interest that passes through the seed point;
3. center point determining means for determining the center point of the region of interest that is dissected by the plane of minimum area;
and
4. point selecting means for selecting a point which is spaced from the center point in a perpendicular direction relative to the plane of minimum area.

6 more elements

A system for displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

A. volume formation means for forming a three dimensional volume of data from a series of two dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;
B. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
C. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in a three-dimensional display, including splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying means for displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible, wherein the splitting means includes center line splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open along a center line through the three-dimensional display of the segmented region of interest, wherein the center line splitting means includes:
1. erosion means for iteratively eroding the region of interest until all of the region of interest disappears, thereby determining the last portions of the region of interest to disappear;
and
2. connection means for connecting the last portions of the region of interest to disappear by erosion.

4 more elements

A system for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising:

A. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
B. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
C. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, wherein the rendering means comprises simulation means for simulating movement along a center line through the segmented region of interest of the three-dimensional display, wherein the simulation means includes:
1. selection means for selecting a seed point which lies within the region of interest;
2. plane determining means for determining a plane of minimum area through the segmented region of interest that passes through the seed point;
3. center point determining means for determining the center point of the region of interest that is dissected by the plane of minimum area;
and
4. point selecting means for selecting a point which is spaced from the center point in a perpendicular direction relative to the plane of minimum area.

6 more elements

A system for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising:

A. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
B. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;
and
C. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, wherein the rendering means comprises simulation means for simulating movement along a center line through the segmented region of interest of the three-dimensional display, wherein the simulation means includes:
1. erosion means for iteratively eroding the region of interest until all of the region of interest disappears, thereby determining the last portions of the region of interest to disappear;
and
2. connection means for connecting the last portions of the region of interest to disappear by erosion.

4 more elements

A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
B. segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest, wherein the segmentation step comprises a step of determining thickness of the region of interest;
and
C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display.

1 more element

A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;
b. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional image in computer memory;
c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the segmentation step comprises a step of determining tracheobronchial airway thickness;
and
d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display.

2 more elements

A system for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
b. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the segmentation means comprises a means for determining thickness of the region of interest;
and
c. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display.

1 more element

A system for displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three dimensional volume of data from a series of two dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;
b. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the segmentation means comprises a means for determining thickness of the region of interest;
and
c. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in a three-dimensional display, including splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying means for displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible.

1 more element

A method for displaying three-dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

a. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;
b. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest, wherein segmenting the region of interest comprises determining the thickness of the region of interest;
and
c. rendering the segmented region of interest in a three-dimensional display including the steps of splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible.

1 more element

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Method and system for producing interactive, three-dimensional renderings of selected body organs having hollow lumens to enable simulated movement through the lumen

Life of this patent

Method and system for producing interactive, three-dimensional renderings of selected body organs having hollow lumens to enable simulated movement through the lumen

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims156