Abstract: A method of computer aided treatment planning is performed by generating and manipulating a three dimensional (3D) image of a region which includes at least one anatomical structure for which treatment, such as surgery, biopsy, tissue component analysis, prosthesis implantation, radiation, chemotherapy and the like, is contemplated. A virtual intervention, which simulates at least a portion of the contemplated treatment, is performed in the 3D image. The user can then determine the effect of the intervention and interactively modify the intervention for improved treatment results. Preferably, a warning is automatically provided if the intervention poses a risk of detrimental effect. The user can navigate through the contemplated region in the 3D image and assess the results. The treatment plans can be saved for comparison and post treatment evaluation.

Abstract: A computer based system and method of visualizing a region using multiple image data sets is provided. The method includes acquiring first volumetric image data of a region and acquiring at least second volumetric image data of the region. The first image data is generally selected such that the structural features of the region are readily visualized. At least one control point is determined in the region using an identifiable structural characteristic discernable in the first volumetric image data. The at least one control point is also located in the at least second image data of the region such that the first image data and the at least second image data can be registered to one another using the at least one control point. Once the image data sets are registered, the registered first image data and at least second image data can be fused into a common display data set.

Abstract: A method of computer aided treatment planning is performed by generating and manipulating a three dimensional (3D) image of a region which includes at least one anatomical structure for which treatment, such as surgery, biopsy, tissue component analysis, prosthesis implantation, radiation, chemotherapy and the like, is contemplated. A virtual intervention, which simulates at least a portion of the contemplated treatment, is performed in the 3D image. The user can then determine the effect of the intervention and interactively modify the intervention for improved treatment results. Preferably, a warning is automatically provided if the intervention posses a risk of detrimental effect. The user can navigate through the contemplated region in the 3D image and assess the results. The treatment plans can be saved for comparison and post treatment evaluation.

Abstract: A computer based system and method of visualizing a region using multiple image data sets is provided. The method includes acquiring first volumetric image data of a region and acquiring at least second volumetric image data of the region. The first image data is generally selected such that the structural features of the region are readily visualized. At least one control point is determined in the region using an identifiable structural characteristic discernable in the first volumetric image data. The at least one control point is also located in the at least second image data of the region such that the first image data and the at least second image data can be registered to one another using the at least one control point. Once the image data sets are registered, the registered first image data and at least second image data can be fused into a common display data set.