Microcomputer-based system for 3D reconstruction, analysis and 3D animation of the heart and its coronary arteries

A system for 3D reconstruction, analysis, and dynamic animation of the heart and the coronary arteries was developed on an IBM/PC-compatible computer. The system utilizes data from MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), cine-CT (computer tomography), ultrasound, or angiography. The endocardium and epicardium of both the left and right ventricles are first traced from the video monitor. Three-dimensional reconstruction is done from planar slices (MRI, CT) or long axis images (echocardiography). The coronary tree is superimposed on the 3D epicardial surface by means of anatomical markers. The location and severity of the stenosed vessels are then marked. Graphical capabilities include dynamic animation, wireframe, solid shading, semitransparent shading, color mapping of the 3D shape according to local function, and anatomical cross-sectional views. Analysis of global and local ventricular function is achieved by calculating LV volume, ejection fraction, regional thickening, and wall motion