Comprehensive 3d Fiber Tracking as a New Visualization System in Brain Studies

Abstract

Comprehensive spatial visualization of fiber tracts from all perspectives is a highly desirable outcome in brain studies. To achieve this aim, this study establishes the foundation for a new 3D visual interface that integrates Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI). The need for such an interface is critical for understanding brain dynamics, and for providing accurate diagnosis of key brain dysfunctions, in terms of neuronal connectivity in the human brain. Two research fronts were explored:(1) the development of new image processing techniques resulting in comprehensive visualization mechanisms that accurately establish relational positioning of neuronal fiber tracts and key landmarks in semi-transparent 3D brain images, and (2) the design of key algorithms that do not tax the computational requirements of 3D rendering and feature extraction using 2D MRI and DTI frames, remaining within practical time constraints. The system was evaluated using data from thirty patients and volunteers with the Brain Institute at Miami Children's Hospital. The highly integrated and fully embedded fiber-tracking software system provides an optimal research environment for 749 Int. J. Image Grap. 2007.07:749-765. Downloaded from www.worldscientific.com by UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH on 02/20/15. For personal use only. 750 D. Sanchez et al. innovative visualization mechanisms of white matter fiber tracts. This 3D visualization system reached the implementation level that makes it ready for deployment at other clinical sites.

A measure of the effectiveness of incorporating 3D human anatomy into an online undergraduate laboratory

“…3D visualisation is routinely used in many fields beyond nursing and allied health where imagery of complex systems or designs is of importance. Some of these fields include forensics, dentistry, chemistry, surgery and other areas of health care as well as engineering (Aurbach et al , 2001; Brenton et al , 2007; Choi & Choi, 2007; Komoda et al , 1994; Sanchez, Adjouadi, Altman, Sanchez & Bernal, 2007). The 3D techniques mentioned in these papers are more complex than those represented in this study primarily because they offer greater interactivity for the user by permitting image manipulation and rotation.…”