The Integration of Computed Topography Imaging in Ultrasound Diagnosis: Real-Time Virtual Sonography

Ultrasound imaging in medicine is a noninvasive and convenient examination method. The probe for the ultrasound scanner is manipulated freehand during examination, so the cross-sectional image is a little less objective compared to other modalities. In addition, the cross-sectional image is not parallel to the body, and hence it is difficult to compare ultrasound images and computed tomography (CT) images. When the doctor makes the comparison between these two kinds of images for diagnosis or interventional operation, he feels some stress. We thought this situation should be improved, so we developed a new technology that combines CT images to ultrasound images. This system enables side-by-side display of CT multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) images obtained from CT volume data and the same cross-sectional ultrasound images in real time. We named it as real-time virtual sonography (RVS).