Visualization and Exploration of Segmented Anatomic Structures

This chapter provides an introduction into the visualization of segmented anatomic structures using indirect and direct volume rendering methods. Indirect volume rendering typically generates a polygonal representation of an organ surface, whereas this surface may exhibit staircasing artifacts due to the segmentation. Since our visual perception is highly sensitive to discontinuities, it is important to provide adequate methods to remove or at least reduce these artifacts. One of the most frequently visualized anatomical structures are blood vessels. Their complex topology and geometric shape represent specific challenges. Therefore, we explore the use of model assumptions to improve the visual representation of blood vessels. Finally, virtual endoscopy as one of the novel exploration methods is discussed.