An Algorithm of Segmentation for Virtual Endoscopy

摘要

In this paper we present an automated region -growing algorithm designed to extract the pipe-like organs, i.e. bronchus, colon and blood vessel, from 3D CT images taken by helical CT scanner. The algorithm is called 3D scanline -filling algorithm, which is a kind of region-growing. This algorithm is very fast, and its parameters can be adjusted automatically. It can be utilized in Virtual Endoscopy system(VES), which is an important computer -aided diagnosis method. The data created after applying this algorithm can then be sent to VES for further process, be visualized and displayed on screen. The physician can observed the inner organ on the screen just like with a real endoscopy without any pain.