Abstract: In a method for respiration-dependent triggering of a data acquisition event in an imaging procedure, a navigation system is employed in order to reproduce the position of a body part moving due to respiration on a scale, particularly a linear scale. Triggering for the exposure of an image ensues at prescribed positions of a pointer relative to the scale, i.e. at prescribed scale values.

Abstract: A device for MR-guided endorectal prostate biopsy has a biopsy guidance device connected to an MR system that is secured to the patient support table, and is alignable via the MR system for alignment and guidance of the biopsy needle into a preselectable target area. The biopsy guidance device contains MR-imaging markers and is provided with a trajectory setting mechanism at which the previously selected and calculated trajectory can be set.

Abstract: A system for automatic calibration of instruments (S) having varying cross-sectional dimensions within a predetermined range and having detectable elements (110, 112, 113, 114) thereon for computer-aided surgery, comprising a calibration base (C) having detectable elements (43, 44, 46, 48) secured thereto for detecting a position and an orientation thereof in space by sensors (204) connected to a position calculator (202). The calibration base is adapted to receive and to releasably secure a working shaft (100) of any of the instruments (S) and provides an abutting surface (14) for a tip (102) thereof in such a way that a position and orientation of the tip (102) of the instrument (S) secured therein is calculable when working shaft cross-section dimensions thereof are known. The position calculator (202) receives instrument data (214) and calibration data (218) from an operator through a user interface (206) and stores the instrument data (214) and calibration data (218) for subsequent calibrations.

Abstract: Instrumentation and methods are provided for mounting a surgical navigation reference frame to a patient for performing an image-guided surgical procedure on an anatomical component. In one embodiment of the invention, a trocar is positioned within a cannula to form an insertion device adapted for percutaneous introduction into the patient. A bone anchor having a bone engaging portion is inserted through the cannula and is anchored to bone. The bone anchor cooperates with the cannula to form a mounting device adapted for coupling with the surgical navigation reference frame. In one embodiment of the invention, an image-guided surgical procedure is performed at a location remote from the anchoring location. In a specific embodiment, an image-guided surgical procedure is performed adjacent the spinal column, with the bone engaging portion of the bone anchor anchored to the iliac region of the pelvic bone, and more specifically to the iliac crest of the pelvic bone.

Abstract: The invention is directed biopsy site markers and methods of marking a biopsy site, so that the location of the biopsy cavity is readily visible by conventional imaging methods, particularly by ultrasonic imaging. The biopsy site markers of the invention have high ultrasound reflectivity, presenting a substantial acoustic signature from a small marker, so as to avoid obscuring diagnostic tissue features in subsequent imaging studies, and can be readily distinguished from biological features. The several disclosed embodiments of the biopsy site marker of the invention have a high contrast of acoustic impedance as placed in a tissue site, so as to efficiently reflect and scatter ultrasonic energy, and preferably include gas-filled internal pores. The markers may have a non-uniform surface contour to enhance the acoustic signature. The markers have a characteristic form which is recognizably artificial during medical imaging.

Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging (“MRI”) system and method of correcting for the motion of a subject during an MRI scan. The motion of a subject in an MRI scan is corrected by acquiring nuclear magnetic resonance (“NMR”) spectra of an ordered material attached to a subject, wherein there is a dependence on the NMR spectra of the ordered material's orientation in a magnetic field, and determining an orientation of the subject. Correction information is then supplied to a primary spectrometer channel which is used to execute an MRI scan, and an imaging pulse sequence of the MRI scan is adjusted to correct the subject's orientation.

Abstract: Instrumentation and methods are provided for performing image-guided spinal surgery using an anterior surgical approach. In one embodiment, the method comprises providing a surgical navigation reference device, mounting the reference device to bone at a location remote from the spinal column and in a substantially fixed position relative thereto, accessing a portion of the spinal column from an anterior direction, and performing an image-guided surgical procedure on the spinal column using an anterior surgical approach. In another embodiment, the mounting of the reference device comprises anchoring the reference device to a portion of the patient's pelvic bone, and more specifically the anterior region of the iliac crest. In a further embodiment, the image-guided surgical procedure comprises a spinal implantation procedure wherein a spinal implant is inserted into an intervertebral opening formed along the lumbar region of the spinal column using an anterior surgical approach.

Abstract: A measurement system and method for detecting and tracking the pose of an object displaceable in a coordinate reference frame. In the system and method a visible target pattern is provided on the object. The visible target pattern includes a series of contrast regions for providing at least two feature points. Each of these feature points is located at a juncture of an optically detectable plurality of edges. Each edge in the optically detectable plurality of edges separates different contrast regions. The method and system determine the location of the feature points by first locating the edges using the change in contrast between contrast regions, and then determining junctures of multiple edges. The method and system also involve a stereoscopic digital camera for generating a pair of digital images of the target pattern and a marker template comprising a set of reference characteristics including a relationship between the feature points.

Abstract: Fiducials (50) are disposed in an imaging region (14) along with a subject. The fiducials are mounted either to the subject itself, a surgical tool (52), an imaging probe or receive coil (80), or the like. The fiducials are filled with a liquid or gel of a fluorine 19 (Fl19) compound which has a resonance frequency that is only 6% off from the resonance frequency of protons. This enables a common transmitter (22), transmit and receive coils, and receiver (34) to be utilized for both proton and fluorine 19 imaging. The proton and fluorine resonance signals are separately reconstructed into corresponding image memories (42, 64). From the positions of the fiducials, a position calculator (66) determines the position of a fiducial carrying surgical tool or probe relative to the proton image. A depiction of the tool or probe from a look-up table (70) is appropriately positioned and rotated (68) and superimposed on the proton image by a video processor (44).

Abstract: A pre-operative device includes at least one elongated probe (1) integrating at least one element for detecting radioactive radiation (3) emitted by tissues (4) marked by radioactive isotopes or radioactive colloids, generating a first representative electrical signal (5), at least one element (6) for emitting luminous radiation toward the tissues (4) and at least one element (7) for receiving and transmitting reflected luminous radiation (8) reflected by the tissues (4) marked by vital colorants or magnetic markers, toward at least one element (9) for converting the reflected luminous radiation (8) into a second representative electrical signal (10), electrical connection elements for conveying the first and second electrical signals (5, 10) and, at least one electronic means (11) for processing electronic signals.

Abstract: The invention provides materials, devices and methods for marking biopsy sites for a limited time. The biopsy-marking materials are ultrasound-detectable bio-resorbable powders, with powder particles typically between about 20 microns and about 800 microns in maximum dimension, more preferably between about 300 microns and about 500 microns. The powders may be formed of polymeric materials containing cavities sized between about 10 microns and about 500 microns, and may also contain binding agents, anesthetic agents, hemostatic agents, and radiopaque markers. Devices for delivering the powders include tubes configured to contain the powders and to fit within a biopsy cannula, the powders being ejected by action of a syringe. Systems may include a tube containing powder, and a syringe containing sterile saline. The tube may be configured to fit within a biopsy cannula such as a Mammotome® or SenoCor 360™ cannula.

Abstract: A targeting device defines a direction of approach to a subsurface target under guidance of imaging equipment such as a computer tomograph or a magnetic resonance imaging machine. The targeting device is positioned relative to the target in such a way that the optimal direction of approach avoiding vital internal structures can be selected by reference to the images displayed on the imagine equipment. The device projects a visible light beam, such as a laser beam, on a region of a patient, indicating the point of entry and the angle of approach to the subsurface target.

Abstract: A method for creating a volumetric data set representing a three-dimensional distribution, such as a dose distribution produced by a radiosurgery system uses a plurality of stacked sensors (12) to obtain two-dimensional cross sectional images of the distribution. The images are optically scanned in a scanner (20) to obtain digitized two-dimensional images which can be processed by software in a computer (22). Each of the sensors (12), which may be, for example, a sheet of X-ray sensitive film, is marked with a visible fiducial mark (17). The software locates images of the fiducial marks (17) in the digitized images. The locations of the fiducial marks (17) indicate the proper orientation and sequence of each image. The software populates a volumetric data structure with data from the scanned images. Interpolation may be used to increase the resolution of the data structure.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for aligning and imaging a body part which immobilizes the body part within a stereotactic body localization system having an imaging resolver fiducial localizer for precise imaging and localization of the body parts within the apparatus. Both anterior and posterior immobilization methods can be used. A continuous array of coupled fiducials is employed with at least one pair formed in a &pgr;/2 horizontal linked sine and cosine wave fiducial pattern.

Abstract: A system for constructing image slices through a selected object, the system comprising an identifiable fiducial reference in a fixed position relative to the selected object, wherein the fiducial reference comprises at least two identifiable reference markers. A source of radiation is provided for irradiating the selected object and the fiducial reference to form a projected image of the selected object and the fiducial reference which is recorded by a recording medium.

Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, fiducial marker devices, tools, and methods. One example illustrates a combined imagable fiducial locator and divot for receiving a positioning wand of an image-guided surgical (IGS) workstation. A further example is reflective such that it is locatable by a remote detector of an optical positioning system. A generally cylindrical (e.g., faceted cylindrical) columnar locator permits easy application of reflective tape. Other examples discusses a unitary fiducial marker with multiple divots and a swiveling and/or tilted fiducial marker divot, each of which allows manipulation of a positioning wand into a remote camera's field of view. Another example includes at least one reflector that can be aimed. A further example discusses an imagable fiducial marker carrier that is attachable to a single location on a patient's skull to reduce trauma.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method of positioning an interventional device in a body using a guide pivoting about a pivot point, performed by locating the spatial coordinates of a target and the pivot point, determining a third point outside of the body lying along or proximate a line extending through the target and pivot point, and aligning the axis of the guide with the third point using an imaging system. There is also disclosed a medical imaging system including a processing unit and computer software operative on the processing unit to permit an operator of the system to locate the spatial coordinates of a target point and a pivot point of a guide, and determine a third point outside of the body lying along or proximate a line extending through the target and pivot point. This medical imaging system may further include computer software operative on the processing unit to assist an operator in obtaining an image by which the axis of the guide can be aligned with the third point using an imaging system.

Abstract: A medical imaging marker includes a marking body having a shape. The marking body can comprise a mixture of materials having different imaging properties. The particular properties of the different constituent materials of the mixture can be independently controlled. The relative amounts of the materials in the mixture can be varied. The mixture can be a conventional mixture, a suspension, a composite, a glass, or other mixture. The marker can be usable in a plurality of imaging techniques.

Abstract: A dual pointing device to be used in cooperation with an imaging apparatus, a tracking system, and an object to be imaged. The dual pointing device provides a means for tracking a point on in image in both the image's frame of reference and Euclidean absolute coordinates. This is accomplished by having two tracking systems follow the dual pointing device. Since the two tracking systems follow the same physical device, and since one tracking system operates in the image coordinates while the other tracking system operates in the absolute coordinates, the device makes it possible to effect automatic transformations between the two systems. More specifically, in the preferred embodiment of the dual pointing device, which is intended for use with a magnetic resonance imager, the absolute tracking system is based on infra-red reflectors on the device that are tracked by an infrared transponder.

Abstract: The invention is directed biopsy site markers and methods of marking a biopsy site, so that the location of the biopsy cavity is readily visible by conventional imaging methods, particularly by ultrasonic imaging. The biopsy site markers of the invention have high ultrasound reflectivity, presenting a substantial acoustic signature from a small marker, so as to avoid obscuring diagnostic tissue features in subsequent imaging studies, and can be readily distinguished from biological features. The several disclosed embodiments of the biopsy site marker of the invention have a high contrast of acoustic impedance as placed in a tissue site, so as to efficiently reflect and scatter ultrasonic energy, and preferably include gas-filled internal pores. The markers may have a non-uniform surface contour to enhance the acoustic signature. The markers have a characteristic form which is recognizably artificial during medical imaging.

Abstract: An MR-compatible surgical instrument is proposed. A simpler, more economic construction is made possible by the use of aluminum or an aluminum compound or alloy as base material, which is covered by a thin barrier layer of an inorganic oxide.

Abstract: A system for automated x-ray system parameter evaluation is provided. A physical model or template is created and stored in the system, one for each desired phantom. The automated system imports a grayscale x-ray image and then processes the image to determine image components. First, a histogram of the image is created, then a threshold in the histogram is determined and the imported image is binarized with respect to the threshold. Next, connected component analysis is used to determine image components. If the components do not match, then the image is rejected. The system next locates landmarks in the imported image corresponding to expected physical structures. The landmarks include a perimeter ring, vertical and horizontal line segments, and fiducials. The system uses the landmarks to predict Regions of Interest (ROIs) where measurement of the x-ray system parameters takes place. Finally, the x-ray system parameters are measured in the identified ROIs.

Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, a fiducial marker assembly that includes an internally engagable base. The base is sized and shaped to be mounted flush to or recessed from an outer surface of a patient's skull, thereby reducing or avoiding patient discomfort. The fiducial marker assembly includes an imagable locator and a registration receptacle. A base insertion instrument is engaged to the base to attach the base to the patient's skull. In one example the base includes a faceted head, permitting a socket-like device to screw or unscrew the base into or out of the skull. In another example, the base includes at least one step or slot for engaging an insertion or extraction tool.

Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, a fiducial markers capable of use in image guided surgery (IGS) procedures, such as neurosurgery, or other applications. One example includes a positioning instrument with a cap that mates directly to an imageable sphere to perform registration. Another example includes a jointed positioning instrument that, when placed in a base, pivots about a location defined by a center of the imageable sphere when it was in the base. Another example includes a fiducial marker with two imageable spheres defining a line intersecting a desired point on the base. Another example includes a base with a receptacle for receiving a positioning instrument. Another example includes an imageable sphere with a removable imageable portion to allow access to a center of the imageable sphere by a positioning instrument.

Abstract: A non-implantable CT and MRI marker has a first component formed of at least one of a silicone resin and a fluorcarbon resin and a second component comprised of at least one of an elastomer and an organogel contained in the first component.

Abstract: A system for positioning and repositioning a portion of a patient's body with respect to a treatment or imaging machine includes multiple cameras to view the body and the machine. Index markers are identified and located by the cameras in 3D space. In one embodiment, such index markers are in a determinable relationship to analogous markers used during previous image scanning of the patient. Anatomical targets determined from image scanning can be located relative to reference positions associated with the treatment of diagnostic machine. Several forms of camera, index markers, methods and systems accommodate different clinical uses. X-ray imaging of the patient further refines anatomical target positioning relative to the treatment of diagnostic imaging reference point. Movements of the patient based on comparative analysis of imaging determined anatomical targets relative to reference points on treatment or diagnostic apparatus are controlled by the system and process of the invention.

Abstract: To generate a magnetic resonance angiograph, a patient is injected with a contrast-enhancing agent (210). An ellipsoidal central portion of k-space (300) and a first surrounding region (310) are continuously sampled (220). A portion of each central data set (300, 310) is reconstructed (230) into a low-resolution volume and maximum-intensity-projected (240) onto a line. The maximum intensity projection (240) is processed (250) in order to detect the arrival of the contrast enhancing bolus within a volume of interest. Upon detection of the arrival of the bolus, the acquisition of a high-resolution magnetic resonance angiograph is triggered (260) in which higher phase encode portions (310, 420) of k-space are sampled. The central data set (300) along with the higher phase encode views (310, 420) are reconstructed (290) into a high-resolution magnetic resonance angiogram.

Abstract: A reference frame adapted to be fitted to a subject of medical treatment and provided with markers for determining the position or the orientation of the subject comprises fitting section for fitting the reference frame with the subject at least three spots (tops of the left and right ears and the nasal projection) along the undulations of the surface thereof and three or more than three markers detectable at least ether in an X-ray image or in an MRI image of the reference frame, the markers being to be arranged at predetermined positions not connectable by a straight line. A surgical operation navigating system determines the coordinates of the markers in a coordinate system defined for the image taken for the purpose of medical examination of the subject who is carrying the reference frame on the basis of the obtained image.

Abstract: A method for assisting in a dental treatment, wherein: a three-dimensional volume data set for the tooth and/or jaw area of a patient is produced by means of an imaging method, for example tomographic imaging; the tooth and/or jaw area is registered and/or referenced by means of a computer-assisted navigation and/or tracking system using the volume data set; instruments and apparatus for treatment are registered and/or referenced relative to said computer-assisted navigation and/or tracking system, and positionally tracked; and wherein said navigation and/or tracking system supplies information for assisting and/or guiding the treatment before, during or after the treatment, by means of an output unit. It further concerns a device for implementing the method and the application of the device for assisting in a dental treatment.

Abstract: An open MRI or other diagnostic imaging system (A) generates a three-dimensional diagnostic image representation, which is stored in an MRI image memory (26). A laser scanner or other surface imaging system (B) generates a volumetric surface image representation that is stored in a surface image memory (34). Typically, the volume and surface images are misaligned and the magnetic resonance image may have predictable distortions. An image correlating system (C) determines offset, scaling, rotational, and non-linear corrections to the magnetic resonance image representation, which are implemented by an image correction processor (48). The corrected magnetic resonance image representation and the surface image representation are combined (50) and stored in a superimposed image memory (52). A video processor (54) generates image representations from selected portions of the superimposed image representation for display on a human-readable monitor (56).

Abstract: Method and system are presented for guiding a diagnostic or therapeutic instrument towards a correct target inside the patient's body. A combined image obtained by registering structural and functional images of at least a portion of the patient's body including the target is used together with a guiding device. The guiding device has an indicator associated with the instrument, and is operable for presenting data indicative of a position of a location on the instrument relative to any other point in the at least portion of the patient's body. The guiding device is connectable to a computer device displaying the combined image and operable thereby for guiding the instrument towards the target.

Abstract: In a human or animal brain or other nerve tissue, specific objects or conditions, such as brain lesions and plaques, serve as indicators, or biomarkers, of neurological disease. In a three-dimensional image of the region of interest, the biomarkers are identified and quantified. Multiple three-dimensional images can be taken over time, in which the biomarkers can be tracked over time. Statistical segmentation techniques are used to identify the biomarker in a first image and to carry the identification over to the remaining images.

Abstract: An image of a patient taken through X-ray computed tomography or the like is registered to physical measurements taken on the patient's body. Different parts of the patient's body are given different numerical weights; for example, if bone measurements are deemed to be more accurate than skin measurements, the bones can be given a higher weight than the skin. The weights are used in an iterative registration process to determine a rigid body transformation function. The transformation function is used in robot-assisted surgical procedures, stereotactic procedures or the like.

Abstract: The invention includes a device for detection of respiratory motion of a subject during acquisition of an magnetic resonance image that includes a lever having a proximal and a distal end, a counterweight on the proximal end of the lever, a fulcrum, a pickup coil attached to the distal end of the lever, and a MRI machine that has a radio frequency resonator, a gradient coil, and a magnetic field, wherein the lever, fulcrum, counterweight, and pickup coil are positioned so that the lever moves as the subject breathes, the pickup coil is also positioned so that it does not cause artifacts in the MRI image, and the device as a whole generates an electrical signal that can be used to detect and monitor the respiratory motion of the subject.

Abstract: In a method for the operation of a MR tomography apparatus the MR tomography apparatus determines anatomical landmarks in the examination subject on the basis of a specific diagnostic interrogatory prescribed by the user. Measuring parameters for following MR measurements are defined automatically on the basis of these landmarks.

Abstract: A dual pointing device to be used in cooperation with an imaging apparatus, a tracking system, and an object to be imaged. The dual pointing device provides a means for tracking a point on in image in both the image's frame of reference and Euclidean absolute coordinates. This is accomplished by having two tracking systems follow the dual pointing device. Since the two tracking systems follow the same physical device, and since one tracking system operates in the image coordinates while the other tracking system operates in the absolute coordinates, the device makes it possible to effect automatic transformations between the two systems. More specifically, in the preferred embodiment of the dual pointing device, which is intended for use with a magnetic resonance imager, the absolute tracking system is based on infra-red reflectors on the device that are tracked by an infrared transponder. The image-relative tracking system is based on magnetic resonance responsive samples that are detected by the imager.

Abstract: Generally, the present invention is directed to a method and system for a aligning surgical guide instrument over a burr hole in a patient's body. More particularly, the present invention is directed to a stand-alone instrument guidance unit that is attachable to a patient's skull. Adjustments of a surgical instrument can be made in x, y, z, and angular directions using the system and method of the present invention. In one aspect of the present invention, an instrument guide unit includes an instrument guide for guiding a surgical instrument into the body of a patient and a base unit operative to be secured to the body in an area in which surgery. is to occur. The base unit is coupled to the instrument guide. An adjustment mechanism, coupled to the base unit and the instrument guide, is operative to adjust the instrument guide in lateral directions with respect the surface of the area. The adjustment mechanism is operative to adjust the instrument guide in x and y directions.

Abstract: An imaging modality, in particular a mobile CT system, comprises an imaging system for imaging an object to be examined. The imaging modality is also provided with an image guided surgery system which includes a position measuring system for measuring positions within the object and a data processor for deriving a transformation between positions within the object and the corresponding positions in the image. The position measuring device is also arranged to measure the position of the imaging system and the data processor is arranged to derive the transformation from the position and/or orientation of the imaging system. The position measuring system is notably an optical position measuring system which is arranged to measure the position of the gantry of the CT system. The data processor is arranged to derive the transformation from the measured position of the gantry.

Abstract: A positioning system for determining the relation between a coordinate set of a scanning apparatus such as an MRI and a coordinate set of a tracking system so as to allow determining the position of a selected target on an image of a patient acquired by the scanning apparatus in the coordinate set of the tracking apparatus and vice versa. The system comprises reference points positioned in predetermined location relative to the coordinate set of the scanning apparatus; tracking system adapted to detect and determine the position of the reference points, relative to the coordinate set of the tracking system; processing device adapted to communicate with the tracking system and adapted to determine the relation between the coordinate set of the scanning apparatus and the coordinate set of the tracking system, translating the coordinates of the target on the image acquired by the scanning apparatus to corresponding coordinates on the coordinate set of the tracking system.

Abstract: An easily recognized spatial relationship between an object and a section thereof is displayed (together with a real time image of the section) to permit quick, accurate, easy and accurate selection of a desired three-dimensional position for the section. The coordinate system of an imaging system may also be concurrently displayed. In addition to sequentially pasted real time section images, a reference image acquired at an arbitrary time may also be pasted on a portion of the display. Thus a reference image and a real-time image of the scanned section can be displayed to facilitate a better spatial understanding of the position of the section being scanned and imaged.

Abstract: A computer assisted surgery system for accurate positioning of a drill bit into a body part. The system includes a drill guide and a drill with attached localizing emitters whose poses are determined by a localizing device. The drill bit is attached to the drill and the location of the tip of the drill bit is determined during a calibration step. During drilling, the drill bit is inserted through the bore of the drill guide and the pose of the drill bit is calculated from measured position data of both the drill guide and drill. A graphic representation of the drill bit is then displayed on a monitor screen in an appropriate position relative to stored images or other surgical instruments.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for MR based volumetric frameless 3-D interactive localization, virtual simulation, and dosimetric radiation therapy planning. Using an MR imaging device, a patient is scanned to generate a magnetic resonance image volume data set. Using the MR data set exclusively, parallel and divergent volume images of the patient is displayed for target tissue identification, localization, virtual simulation, and dosimetric radiation therapy planning. Preferably, the interactive localization, simulation, and dosimetric RTP is based exclusively on the 3-dimensional MR volume data set rendered in the form of at least one of a multi-planar reformatted image (MPR), an oblique multi-planar reformatted image (OMPR), a digitally reconstructed “radiograph” (DRR), and a digitally composited “radiograph” (DCR).

Abstract: This invention relates to skin-based localizer markers that can be placed on the external anatomy of a patient during CT, MRI, or other scanning methods for producing identifiable index marks in stereotactic localization. In a preferred embodiment, the markers are of an annular or axially symmetric geometry, with provision for radiopaque and therefore CT-visible elements and also MRI-visible medium within the marker. The annular shape enables accurate identification of the centroid of the marker in the CT, MRI, or other tomographic image. Because the markers are visible in multi-modal imaging, such as CT and MR, registration of these images or stereotactic indexing can be done from one or both imaging types. In another embodiment, the marker has an index or concave central portion which enables a stereotactic digitized pointer to be placed stably within the indentation during calibration or marker identification in a surgical context.

Abstract: In a system and method for the registration of images of a subject using magnetic resonance, the positions of one or more markings arranged at the subject and movable together therewith are detected with an acquisition system operated independently of and in parallel with the diagnostic image generating and registration operation of the magnetic resonance system. These positions serve as a criterion for identifying the orientation of the subject relative to the diagnostic imaging system, and the tomogram plane of interest is re-adjusted dependent on the positions of the markings.

Abstract: Apparatus for image-guided surgery includes medical imaging apparatus. The imaging apparatus is utilized for capturing 3-dimensional (3D) volume data of patient portions in reference to a coordinate system. A computer processes the volume data so as to provide a graphical representation of the data. A stereo camera assembly captures a stereoscopic video view of a scene including at least portions of the patient. A tracking system measures pose data of the stereoscopic video view in reference to the coordinate system. The computer is utilized for rendering the graphical representation and the stereoscopic video view in a blended way in conjunction with the pose data so as to provide a stereoscopic augmented image. A head-mounted video-see-through display displays the stereoscopic augmented image.

Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging system for interventional MR imaging involving operations to insert a device such as a catheter into an object. According to the system, a tip position of the catheter is detected, data indicative of moved loci of the catheter are produced from data indicative of the detected tip position, and the produced movement locus data are displayed. In addition, even when an operator changes the progress direction of the device such as a puncture needle, an imaging cross section automatically tracks movements of the device. Appropriate preoperative plan means are also provided.

Abstract: A system for quantitative computer graphic determination of positions on a patient's anatomy and positions on associated equipment located near the patient's anatomy in relation to anatomical data, as from CT or MR scanning. A first camera produces a quantitative electronic readout of its field-of-view which provides a determination of relative spacial coordinates of uniquely identifiable points in its field-of-view. A second camera produces a quantitative electronic readout of its field-of-view which provides a determination of relative spacial coordinates of uniquely identifiable points in its field-of-view. The two cameras are located with respect to the patient's anatomy and the associated equipment so that the fields-of-view of the cameras include both the patient's anatomy and the equipment, but are taken from different directions. A body marker is positioned with respect to the patient's anatomy at a known position relative to said patient anatomy.

Abstract: The Overhauser effect is a technique for increasing the signal-to-noise ratio of nuclear magnetic resonance signals. Electron spin resonance is set up for example in a contrast agent 14 injected into a patient by means of a transmitter 3 at the end of a probe 1 to excite an area 15. The excited electrons couple to MR active nuclei and increase the population in the higher energy level. Then, when an NMR signal is transmitted and received via coil 5, more MR active nuclei return to the ground state and create a bigger, enhanced, signal detected by the coil 5, hence promoting increased signal-to-noise ratio on an image formed on the monitor 9. In the invention, the Overhauser effect may be applied to an intra-operative situation by means of probe 1 which is inserted, for example, into a patient in a region of interest.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method for MR imaging using a moveable RF receiving coil assembly that is swept over the region of interest to be imaged during the imaging protocol.

Abstract: While acquiring a tomographic image, the position of patient's head is continuously measured and recorded. For this purpose, several cameras (5) are arranged at the tomograph (1). They measure the position of a reference device (4), which is mounted to the teeth of the patient's upper jaw. Infrared-diodes are arranged on the reference device (4), the position of which is recorded by the cameras (5). This allows to measure the movements of the patient and to compensate for them when generating the tomographic image.