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Interactive definition of transfer functions in volume rendering based on image markers

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International Journal of Computer Assisted Radiology and Surgery Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Objectives A user interface for transfer function (TF) definition in volume rendering (VR) was developed that allows the user to intuitively assign color and opacity to the original image intensities. This software may surpass solutions currently deployed in clinical practice by simplifying the use of TFs beyond predefined settings that are not always applicable.

Materials and methods The TF definition is usually a cumbersome task that requires the user to manipulate graphical representations of the TF (e.g. trapezoids). A new method that allows the user to place markers at points of interest directly on CT and MRI images or orthogonal reformations was developed based on two-dimensional region growing and a few user-definable marker-related parameters. For each user defined image marker, a segment of the transfer function is computed. The resulting TF can also be applied to the slice image views. Results were judged subjectively.

Results Each individualized TF can be defined interactively in a few simple steps. For every user interaction, immediate visual feedback is given. Clinicians who tested the application appreciated being able to directly work on familiar slice images to generate the desired 3D views.

Conclusion Interactive TF definition can increase the actual utility of VR, help to understand the role of the TF with its variations, and increase the acceptance of VR as a clinical tool.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Biomedical Imaging Lab, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore

    Michael Teistler & Wieslaw L. Nowinski

  2. Department of Radiology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA

    Richard S. Breiman

  3. Bioinformatics Institute, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore

    Sauw Ming Liong, Liang Yoong Ho & Atif Shahab

Authors
  1. Michael Teistler
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  2. Richard S. Breiman
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  3. Sauw Ming Liong
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  4. Liang Yoong Ho
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  5. Atif Shahab
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  6. Wieslaw L. Nowinski
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Correspondence to Michael Teistler.

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Teistler, M., Breiman, R.S., Liong, S.M. et al. Interactive definition of transfer functions in volume rendering based on image markers. Int J CARS 2, 55–64 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11548-007-0079-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11548-007-0079-3

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