As the ultrasound exam is performed the fusion system continuously generates reformatted planes from the reference series matching the oblique imaging planes of the ultrasound transducer. The reformatted planes are displayed either as an overlay or side-by-side with the live ultrasound (Figure 1 and Figure 2). This display enhances

interpretation of ultrasound by enabling a direct comparison with the reference images from the same LDE225 chemical structure view angle. The combined use of different modalities for definitive diagnosis is common. Ultrasound, for instance, is useful to assess indeterminate lesions identified in CT or MRI. A confident diagnosis can be made if a clear correlation can be made between ultrasound and the preceding series. However, if a physician is not confident that ultrasound has found the correct lesion, the case may be further referred to another modality with increased time, cost and potentially mixed results. Fusion imaging enables greater confidence in establishing a clear correlation between modalities by visualizing the same anatomy from the same view angle. Ultrasound is also useful for guiding biopsies for definitive diagnosis. Once again, clear correlation with CT or MRI is required to confidently target a specific lesion. Fusion imaging also has potential as a training selleck tool, similarly allowing trainees to better understand

ultrasound in the context of CT or MRI. Fusion imaging

makes use of a tracking system to localize ultrasound transducers and other devices relative to the patient. Optical and electromagnetic systems are available, the latter being most commonly used. Various software tools are also used to bring the reference series into alignment with the tracking system for fusion display [3], [4], [5] and [6]. Research into these tools has been ongoing for approximately 20 years. Clinical implementation of fusion imaging has suffered, however, due to the time required to achieve adequate alignment using traditional methods. Recent advancements in automatic image analysis may potentially reduce this time greatly. Tracking sensors are also incorporated into some interventional devices such as introducers and ablation needles, enabling the display of needle Bcl-w location as an overlay on live ultrasound images (Fig. 2). This display can be useful for overcoming difficulties in visualizing needles during ultrasound-guided procedures [7]. Such devices may allow procedures to be completed more quickly and with fewer placement attempts, particularly for more complex cases (Fig. 3). Ultrasound fusion imaging can potentially apply to a wide range of specialty disciplines. In neurology, fusion imaging may facilitate the interpretation of vascular imaging, such as for multi-modality characterization of atherosclerosis.