LAN based 3D digital ultrasound imaging system for neurosurgery

Two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound imaging system is very convenient to use during the operation, but its resolution is inferior to that of MRI. It is not easy to increase the resolution of the ultrasound imaging system considering its principle. It will be easier for surgeons to comprehend the condition of the tissue when the image data is displayed in three-dimensional (3D) forms. A digital 3D ultrasound imaging system for neurosurgery has been developed in this chapter. This system acquires 2D image data through Local Area Network (LAN) directly. It reconstructs 3D volume from a series of 2D slices by mechanical scanning of the ultrasound probe and renders 3D volume at high speed. A diagnostic ultrasound imaging-system was PC-based and communication program made it possible to transfer image datasets to other computers through LAN. Volume data were reconstructed from sequence of 2D images acquired during the probe rotation. Another PC processed graphics, controlled the motor, and image data were transferred to the memory of it from the diagnostic ultrasound machine. The system was tested in two clinical cases. It helped surgeons to understand the condition of the diseased part during the operation.