A novel 3-dimensional EUS technique for real-time visualization of the volume data reconstruction process.
BACKGROUND
Three-dimensional EUS (3D-EUS) technology has facilitated spatial interpretation of US images. However, acquisition of consecutive US scans is time consuming and difficult. A new 3D-EUS system was developed that negates this problem by allowing rapid image renewal and the efficient production of consecutive US scans.


METHODS
Three-dimensional images were reconstructed from a series of 2-dimensional images corresponding to the rotation angle of the echoendoscope as measured with an electromagnetic tracking system. To evaluate the technical feasibility of the system, 3-dimensional images of splenic veins in 2 patients and an esophageal submucosal tumor in a third patient were generated.


RESULTS
The 3D-EUS system acquired image data at a rate of 30 frames per second and allowed visualization of these data in real-time. The area of interest was clearly and rapidly portrayed in all 3 patients.


CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrates the efficiency of the new 3D-EUS system described in this report. Further development of this novel 3D-EUS system may lead to new applications of this technology.
Sumiyama
Kazuki
K
Department of Surgery and Institute for High Dimensional Medical Imaging, Jikei University School of Medicine, Minatoku, Tokyo, Japan.
Suzuki
Naoki
N
Kakutani
Hiroshi
H
Hino
Shoryoku
S
Tajiri
Hisao
H
Suzuki
Hiroaki
H
Aoki
Teruaki
T
D003199:Computer Systems; D019160:Endosonography / Q000379:methods*; D004938:Esophageal Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000379:methods*; D009092:Mucous Membrane / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D013162:Splenic Vein / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*