Evaluation Of Airway Obstruction using Virtual Endoscopy

Abstract

Virtual endoscopy is a new method of diagnosis using computer processing of 3-D image datasets (such as CT or MRl scans) to provide simulated visualizations of patient specific organs similar or equivalent to those produced by standard endoscopic procedures. Theoretically, most if not all internal structures can be visualized using virtual endoscopy. The clinical benefits are a priority, though clinical validation will be needed. No longer will the patient require a sedative, insertion of an instrument into a natural body opening or minimally invasive opening, hospitalization or ambulatory center observation following the procedure, all of which increases the risk of complications (such as perforation, infection and hemorrhage), and/or adds cost to the procedure. Virtual endoscopic visualization avoids the risks associated with real endoscopy, and when used prior to performing an actual endoscopic exam can minimize procedural difficulties and decrease the rate of morbidity, especially for endoscopists in training. Early success will be in those organ systems of large • size that have no intrinsic motion and which maintain a lumen without special assistance or preparation. This includes but is not limited to the tracheo-bronchial tree. In fact, virtual bronchoscopy provides viewing control and options that are not possible with real bronchoscopy, such as direction and angle of view, scale of view, immediate translocation to new views, lighting, and measurement. Visual feedback positioning systems and navigation guides can orient the virtual bronchoscopist relative to the actual anatomy. Image values from the original data can be associated with any view and quantitatively assessed.