Fabian Necker

Photorealistic rendering of 3D medical volume data for clinical anatomy and education.

In this project, we use a new image processing technique from computer graphics, inspired by recent high-definition feature films and computer games, that can use physical ray simulations to render light realistically and naturally. Now, however, this technique can also be applied to medical image data, transforming them from typical black-and-white slice images into three-dimensional, colorful and interactive models. The special feature is the great similarity of the virtual images to the real anatomy in terms of coloring and shape perception – the transfer between radiological image representation and real anatomy on the patient is greatly facilitated, with great relevance in surgery and teaching. We want to establish this method more strongly in anatomical teaching in particular, so that in the future we will be able to address individual patient anatomy even better during training.