Rapid three-dimensional surface reconstruction of magnetic resonance images of large arteries and veins: a preliminary evaluation of clinical utility.
We have implemented a computerized system for relatively rapid (< 1 h) three-dimensional (3D) surface rendering of flow-sensitive (gradient refocused) magnetic resonance images. The method has been applied in 8 patients with six different clinical problems and was found to enhance understanding of normal and abnormal aortic, caval, and portosystemic venous anatomy. 3D images are useful for communicating complex anatomic information and may help with difficult diagnoses. Advantages and limitations of the present system are discussed.
Kandarpa
K
K
Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115.
Sandor
T
T
Tieman
J
J
Hooshmand
R
R
Chopra
P S
PS
Chakrabati
J
J
D000784:Aortic Dissection / Q000473:pathology; D001011:Aorta / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D017544:Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal / Q000473:pathology; D017545:Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic / Q000473:pathology; D001158:Arteries / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D003626:Data Display; D006801:Humans; D007083:Iliac Artery / Q000473:pathology; D007089:Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods; D011169:Portal Vein / Q000473:pathology; D012077:Renal Artery / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D013164:Splenorenal Shunt, Surgical; D014652:Vascular Diseases / Q000473:pathology; D014680:Veins / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D014682:Vena Cava, Inferior / Q000002:abnormalities / Q000473:pathology