Segmentation and VRML visualization of left ventricle in echocardiographic images using 3D deformable models and superquadrics

A comparative study of some methods of left ventricle segmentation in echocardiographic images is developed. The project is developed in four modules denominated: Acquisition, Segmentation, 3D Reconstruction, and VRML Visualization. 1) The image acquisition of volume sequences of the left ventricle was obtained during an echocardiographic test. This allows the acquisition of 60 sliced planes in a rotational 3D symmetry. 2) Three segmentation methods were developed adapted to the characteristics of the images: a) Active contour models "Snakes" based on the energy-minimizing of a spline. b) Models with front propagation based on Sethian's ideas for a closed curve. c) A third model that combines the 3D acquisition geometry of a volumetric sequence with the superquadric deformable model. This global model has the capacity to segment and to capture the global parameters of size, shape and orientation required by doctors for the analysis of heart dynamics. 3) It realized the 3D Reconstruction and visualization taking advantage of the cylindrical geometry from the image acquisition. In conclusion, the obtained results are consistent with the apparent motion pattern observed of the left ventricle. The doctors are able to visualize and to detect the pathologies better; for example: ischaemia or heart attack observing the dynamics of the developed model.