Multi-modal data fusion and an associated atlas for combined anatomical and functional information of the left ventricle

The authors are investigating the possibilities for the design of an atlas of fuzzy-type information obtained from different myocardial modalities. An object model based on fuzzy disks and fuzzy reasoning is used. Coronary angiograms provide information on anatomy and perfusion. Single-photon-emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) scans reveal information on blood flow and metabolic function within an organ. A merged three-dimensional model of these image modalities and its appropriate rendered display significantly support diagnoses in individual and specific cases. A comparison of 3-D image modalities is possible by mappings which portray the structure of the surface of a 3-D model as a flat 2-D image. Cartography techniques have been used in nuclear medicine. These bull´s-eye maps have demonstrated usefulness in evaluating perfusion and metabolic function of the myocardium. On this basis, the authors checked the feasibility of the application of different types of bull´s-eye maps to get an integrated view of different image modalities