Abstract: The invention provides a system for virtually designing a medical device conformed for use with a specific patient. Using the system, a three-dimensional geometric model of a patient-specific body cavity or lumen is reconstructed from scanned volume images such as obtained x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computer tomography (CT), ultrasound (US), angiography or other imaging modalities. Knowledge of the physical properties of the cavity/lumen is obtained by determining the relationship between image density and the stiffness or elasticity of tissues in the body cavity or lumen and is used to model interactions between a simulated device and a simulated body cavity or lumen.

Abstract: This invention provides a system and method for computer simulation of image-guided diagnostic and therapeutic procedures such as vascular catheterization, angioplasty, stent, coil and graft placement, embolotherapy and drug infusion therapy. In a particularly preferred aspect, the system is configured to resemble a cardiovascular catheterization laboratory where interventional radiology procedures are performed. A first user can interactively manipulate therapeutic catheters, guidewires and other medical devices in real-time while viewing patient-specific medical image data sets in a manner similar to that encountered in a clinical procedure.

Abstract: The invention provides a system for virtually designing a medical device conformed for use with a specific patient. Using the system, a three-dimensional geometric model of a patient-specific body cavity or lumen is reconstructed from scanned volume images such as obtained x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computer tomography (CT), ultrasound (US), angiography or other imaging modalities. Knowledge of the physical properties of the cavity/lumen is obtained by determining the relationship between image density and the stiffness or elasticity of tissues in the body cavity or lumen and is used to model interactions between a simulated device and a simulated body cavity or lumen.

Abstract: Projection measurements are made at different parts of the x-ray energy spectrum. These measurements are processed to obtain image data with the soft tissue component eliminated. The processed image data is obtained before and after the administration of a contrast agent. The two sets of processed image data are combined to obtain an isolated image of the contrast agent which is immune to motion of soft tissue. The invention described herein was made in the course of work under a grant from the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare.

Abstract: Projection measurements are made at different parts of the X-ray energy spectrum. These measurements are processed to obtain image data with the soft tissue component eliminated. The processed image data is obtained before and after the administration of a contrast agent. The two sets of processed image data are combined to obtain an isolated image of the contrast agent which is immune to motion of soft tissue.