Enhancing reality in the operating room

Three dimensional computer models of the anatomy generated from volume acquisitions of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are useful adjuncts to 2D images. This paper describes a system that merges the computer generated 3D models with live video to enhance the surgeon's understanding of the anatomy beneath the surface. The system can be used as a planning aid before the operation and provide additional information during an operation. The application of the system to a brain operation is described.<
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