Endoscopic exploration and measurement in 3D radiological images

A high-resolution 3D radiological image provides a virtual copy of the anatomy that can be used as an input to a computer-based image-analysis system. In particular, useful information can be obtained by interactively navigating through a 3D radiological image in a manner similar to an endoscopic examination. Traditional endoscopy, though, only provides views in restricted regions (e.g., inside hollow passages) and only offers limited exploration and quantitation. We present a computer-based endoscopic system, QUICKSEE, that heads toward overcoming these difficulties. QUICKSEE enables noninvasive unrestricted exploration of the virtual anatomy and can be useful as an anatomical quantitation tool. The system is particularly suited for analyzing complex 3D branching structures such as the pulmonary airways and coronary arteries. The paper describes the current form of QUICKSEE and provides examples of the system's use for 3D pulmonary analysis and 3D microCT imaging.