Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to a method of performing computerized simulations of image-guided procedures. The method may include producing a digital image-based model of an anatomical structure based on medical image data, producing, based on the image-based model and extrapolated data, an extended model that represents the anatomical structure and adjacent anatomical regions not included in the medical image data, displaying a graphical representation of the extended model and performing a computerized simulation of an image-guided procedure using the extended model.

Abstract: Outdoor imaging is plagued by poor visibility conditions due to atmospheric scattering, particularly in haze. A major problem is spatially-varying reduction of contrast by stray radiance (airlight), which is scattered by the haze particles towards the camera. The images can be compensated for haze by subtraction of the airlight and correcting for atmospheric attenuation. Airlight and attenuation parameters are computed by analyzing polarization-filtered images. These parameters were estimated in past studies by measuring pixels in sky areas. However, the sky is often unseen in the field of view. The invention provides methods for automatically estimating these parameters, when the sky is not in view.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to a method of performing computerized simulations of image-guided procedures. The method may include producing a digital image-based model of an anatomical structure based on medical image data, producing, based on the image-based model and extrapolated data, an extended model that represents the anatomical structure and adjacent anatomical regions not included in the medical image data, displaying a graphical representation of the extended model and performing a computerized simulation of an image-guided procedure using the extended model.