We have developed a software tool for interactive visualization and 4D segmentation of multiple sets of images. The segmentation process uses a predefined anatomical template of the structure of interest represented as a polygonal mesh in 3D. This can be obtained from a library of normal or diseased anatomies, or if available, a surface generated from the patient's previous studies can be used. The user then deforms the template so that it correctly delineates the region of interest in the underlying images. These deformations can be constrained to maintain spatial and temporal smoothness as is expected in the underlying anatomy. A unique feature of this analysis package is that multiple non-coplanar image sets can be used concurrently to generate accurate contours. This feature is particularly useful in contouring long axis and short axis images of the heart simultaneously. By generating a reliable segmentation from a substrate of images in space and time, we can automatically contour the structure in the remaining images through appropriate interpolation, and thereby significantly reduce the total segmentation time.
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