Physiopathology of pulmonary airways: Automated facilities for accurate assessment

Abstract

In the framework of computer-assisted diagnosis, pulmonary airway investigation based on multi detector computed tomography (MDCT) requires to provide radiologists and clinicians with advanced tools for interactive exploration, quantitative assessment and follow-up. This paper develops a set of automated investigation facilities relying on 3D airway reconstruction, enhanced central axis-based description and accurate meshing. By overcoming the limitations encountered by the current post-processing techniques available in clinical routine, the proposed tools contribute to increase the diagnosis confidence level and provide better insights into the physiopathology of airways. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2004.