Application of Multimodal Image Fusion Technology in Brain Tumor Surgical Procedure

Abstract

Objective To construct brain tumors and their surrounding anatomical structures through the method of registration, fusion and, three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction based on multimodal image data and to provide the visual information of tumor, skull, brain, and vessels for preoperative evaluation, surgical planning, and function protection. Methods The image data of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were collected from fifteen patients with confirmed brain tumors. We reconstructed brain tumors and their surrounding anatomical structures using NeuroTech software. Results The whole 3D structures including tumor, brain surface, skull, and vessels were successfully reconstructed based on the CT and MRI images. Reconstruction image clearly shows the tumor size, location, shape, and the anatomical relationship of tumor and surrounding structures. We can hide any reconstructed images such as skull, brain tissue, blood vessles, or tumors. We also can adjust the color of reconstructed images and rotate images to observe the structures from any direction. Reconstruction of brain and skull can be semi transparent to display the deep structure; reconstruction of the structures can be axial, coronal, and sagittal cutting to show relationship among tumor and surrounding structures. The reconstructed 3D structures clearly depicted the tumor features, such as size, location, and shape, and provided visual information of the spatial relationship among its surrounding structures. Conclusions The method of registration, fusion, and 3D reconstruction based on multimodal images to provide the visual information is feasible and practical. The reconstructed 3D structures are useful for preoperative assessment, incision design, the choice of surgical approach, tumor resection, and functional protection.