Virtual endoscopy with automated fly-through trajectory

Currently, many applications for virtual endoscopy (VE) are available but fly-through is still troublesome. We are using Virtual Endoscopy Software Application (VESA) in our laboratory. VESA generates a 3D model with surface rendering method and a fly-through trajectory automatically. In this study, our goal is to evaluate the usefulness of VESA for generating virtual endoscopy (VE) images and automated fly-through trajectory. We applied VESA to clinical cases including colon, biliary ducts, aortic dissection and larynx. Original cross-sectional images were either spiral CT or MRI. VESA's advantages are following features. First, VESA can generate VE images with simple operation. Second, a point to point correspondence is established between 2D images / 3D models and VE images. Third, automated trajectory runs more closely to the center of the hollow organ. VESA is a user-friendly tool for generating the VE images and its automated trajectory reduces the operating time. VESA provides a unique visualization component and makes VE more practical.