[Integration of functional and morphologic MRI data for preoperative 3D visualization of tumors. Example: cervical carcinoma].
OBJECTIVE
The goal of this exemplary study was to integrate morphological and functional MRI to establish computer-based, pre-operative therapy planning for tumors, instancing cervical carcinoma.


METHODS
For morphological representation T1-weighted, filtered 3D sequences were investigated within a hierarchical segmentation approach. Using a method for image registration, segmented structures were combined and overlaid with functional information of contrast medium-enhanced, dynamic MRI. After assigning colour attributes to the segmented structures, they were presented using a method for direct volume visualisation.


RESULTS
Segmentation of organs and vessels as well as tissue differentiation yielded a morphological visualisation of anatomical structures that were overlaid with pharmacokinetic parameters derived from dynamic MRI, subsequently. Thereby, three-dimensional, arbitrary views on the functional data were displayed.


CONCLUSIONS
Image analysis and visualisation of the acquired MR data establishes both a morphologic and functional evaluation of suspect lesions and adjacent organs. By integrating morphologic and functional MRI additional information can be gathered that possibly impinge on preoperative planning.
Evers
H
H
Abteilung Medizinische und Biologische Informatik, Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (dkfz), Heidelberg.
Hawighorst
H
H
van Kaick
G
G
Knapstein
P G
PG
Meinzer
H P
HP
D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D015899:Tomography, Emission-Computed, Single-Photon / Q000379:methods*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D002583:Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*
Integration von funktionellen und morphologischen MR-Daten zur präoperativen 3D-Visualisierung von Tumoren. Beispiel Zervixkarzinom.