Tool Localization in 3D Ultrasound Images

Real-time three-dimensional ultrasound has been demonstrated as a viable tool for guiding surgical procedures [1]. This visualization technique may enable a range of new minimally invasive techniques in cardiac and fetal surgery. It is becoming increasingly clear, however, that instruments such as endoscopic graspers when immersed in liquids display artifacts and irregularities that make it difficult to determine the tool’s location, orientation, and geometry (Figure 1a). In addition, the instrument’s shape can appear incomplete due to its orientation or obstacles in the field. Since the geometry and properties of these instruments are known a priori, it is feasible to combine this information with the ultrasound image data to locate and render an enhanced representation of the instrument. This paper introduces a preliminary study of enhancing tool display in three-dimensional ultrasound, focusing on the relationship between the tissue and instrument.