Interactive 3-D Patient-Image Registration

A method has been developed which allows accurate registration of 3D image data sets of the head, such as CT or MRI, with with the anatomy of the actual patient. Once registration is accomplished, the patient and image spaces may be interactively explored, and any point or volume of interest in either space instantly transformed to the other. This paper demonstrates the use of this technology in accurately transferring radiation therapy treatment plans from the 3D image space in which they are simulated, to the physical patient. This provides a heretofore missing objective link between 3D image-based simulations and actual treatment delivery.