Method and system for producing interactive, three-dimensional renderings of selected body organs having hollow lumens to enable simulated movement through the lumen

• US 5,782,762 A
• Filed: 10/27/1994
• Issued: 07/21/1998
• Est. Priority Date: 10/27/1994
• Status: Expired due to Term

• Current Assignee: Wake Forest University Health Sciences
• Original Assignee: Wake Forest University
• Inventors: Vining, David J.
• Primary Examiner(s): Casler, Brian L.
• Application Number:
  US08/331,352
• Time in Patent Office: 1,363 Days
• Field of Search: 128/653.1, 128/653.2, 128/653.4, 128/654, 128/920, 364/413.14, 364/413.19, 364/413.22, 378/4, 378/901, 395/119, 395/120, 395/924, 600/407, 600/410, 600/420, 600/431
• US Class Current: 600/407
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 6/027 characterised by the use of a particular data acquisition trajectory, e.g. helical or spiral
• CPC Class Codes: G06T 15/08 Volume rendering
• CPC Class Codes: G06T 17/20 Finite element generation, e.g. wire-frame surface description, tesselation
• CPC Class Codes: G06T 19/003 Navigation within 3D models or images
• CPC Class Codes: G06T 2207/10081 Computed x-ray tomography [CT]
• CPC Class Codes: G06T 2207/10136 3D ultrasound image
• CPC Class Codes: G06T 2207/30028 Colon; Small intestine
• CPC Class Codes: G06T 2207/30032 Colon polyp
• CPC Class Codes: G06T 2207/30064 Lung nodule
• CPC Class Codes: G06T 2210/08 Bandwidth reduction
• CPC Class Codes: G06T 2210/41 Medical
• CPC Class Codes: G06T 7/0012 Biomedical image inspection
• CPC Class Codes: G06T 7/11 Region-based segmentation
• CPC Class Codes: G06T 7/155 involving morphological operators
• CPC Class Codes: G09B 23/285 for injections, endoscopy, bronchoscopy, sigmoidscopy, insertion of contraceptive devices or enemas
• CPC Class Codes: H04N 9/3141 Constructional details thereof details not peculiar to the presence of an electronic spatial light modulator G03B21/14
• CPC Class Codes: Y10S 128/92 Computer assisted medical diagnostics

Abstract

A method and system are provided for effecting interactive, three-dimensional renderings of selected body organs for purposes of medical observation and diagnosis. A series of CT images of the selected body organs are acquired. The series of CT images is stacked to form a three-dimensional volume file. To facilitate interactive three-dimensional rendering, the three-dimensional volume file may be subjected to an optional dataset reduction procedure to reduce pixel resolution and/or to divide the three-dimensional volume file into selected subvolumes. From a selected volume or subvolume, the image of a selected body organ is segmented or isolated. A wireframe model of the segmented organ image is then generated to enable interactive, three-dimensional rendering of the selected organ.

Claims

1. A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest; and

C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display for interaction with internal surfaces of the segmented region of interest, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

8. The method as recited in claim 1 wherein the series of two-dimensional images comprises images taken at regularly spaced grid locations within the body.

9. The method as recited in claim 8 wherein the spacing between successive grid locations is selected to produce isocubic voxels for the three-dimensional display.

10. The method as recited in claim 8 wherein the spacing between successive grid locations is selected to produce an overlap between successive images.

11. The method as recited in claim 1 wherein the is physical property includes x-ray attenuation.

12. The method as recited in claim 1 wherein the series of two-dimensional images comprises images taken at 1 mm regularly spaced grid locations within the body.

13. The method as recited in claim 1 wherein the series of two-dimensional images comprises computed tomography images.

14. The method as recited in claim 13 wherein the computed tomography images comprise helical computed tomography images.

15. The method as recited in claim 1 wherein the series of two-dimensional images comprises x-ray images.

16. The method as recited in claim 1 wherein the body comprises a human body.

23. The method as recited in claim 1 wherein the step of segmenting the selected region of interest comprises a thresholding step for determining threshold values corresponding to the selected values of the physical property to isolate the selected region of interest.

28. The method as recited in claim 1 wherein the region of interest comprises a tissue-bone interface.

2. A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical representing the selected region of interest;

C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment; and

D. reducing the size of the volume of data before rendering the image of the segmented region of interest in the interactive three-dimensional display.

3. The method as recited in claim 2 wherein the reduction step comprises reducing pixel resolution.

4. The method as recited in claim 3 wherein the pixel resolution is reduced to 8 bits per pixel.

5. The method as recited in claim 2 wherein the reduction step comprises reducing spatial resolution.

6. The method as recited in claim 5 wherein the spatial resolution is reduced to 256 pixels by 256 pixels.

7. The method as recited in claim 2 wherein the reduction step comprises creating a subvolume of data.

17. A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the step of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest, wherein the selected region of interest comprises an air column within a body organ; and

C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

18. The method as recited in claim 17 wherein the air column comprises a colon.

19. The method as recited in claim 17 wherein the air column comprises the bronchi.

20. The method as recited in claim 17 wherein the air column comprises a larynx.

21. The method as recited in claim 17 wherein the air column comprises a trachea.

22. A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional images representing at series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest, wherein the region of interest comprises an air-tissue interface at a body organ; and

C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

24. A method for interactively displaying three dimensional Structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the segmented region of interest, wherein the step of segmenting the selected region of interest comprises a thresholding step for determining threshold values corresponding to the selected the physical property to isolate the selected region of interest;

C. forming an isosurface wireframe model of the isolated selected region of interest; and

D. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

25. The method as recited in claim 24 wherein the step of rendering an image includes the step of rendering a three-dimensional display of the wireframe model.

26. The method as recited in claim 24 including the step of simulating movement through the wireframe model.

27. A method for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;

B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest, wherein the region of interest comprises an air-bone interface; and

C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display herein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

29. A method for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;

B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest; and

C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment, wherein the rendering step includes the steps of splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible.

30. The method as recited in claim 29 wherein the splitting step includes the step of splitting the three-dimensional display open along a line which passes along the center of the three-dimensional display.

31. A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest, the step of segmenting the selected region of interest comprising;

1. a thresholding step for determining threshold values corresponding to the selected values of the physical property to isolate the selected region of interest, the thresholding step comprising;

a. a threshold selection step for selecting the threshold range corresponding to the selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

b. a threshold adjustment step for adjusting the threshold values to provide the threshold range for isolating the region of interest; and

C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display.

32. The method as recited in claim 31 wherein the threshold adjustment step comprises:

a. an orthoslice step of providing an orthoslice through the volume of data; and

b. a display step for displaying the orthoslice and a corresponding thresholded image of the orthoslice, so that the threshold values can be adjusted while comparing the thresholded image to the corresponding orthoslice.

33. A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;

b. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display for interaction with internal surfaces of the segmented region of interest, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

36. The method as recited in claim 33 wherein the series of two-dimensional images comprises images taken at regularly spaced grid locations within the body.

37. The method as recited in claim 36 wherein the spacing between successive grid locations is selected to produce isocubic voxels for the three-dimensional display.

38. The method as recited in claim 36 wherein the series of two-dimensional images comprises images taken at 1 mm regularly spaced grid locations within the body.

39. The method as recited in claim 36 wherein the spacing between successive grid locations is selected to produce an overlap between successive images.

40. The method as recited in claim 33 wherein the physical property includes x-ray attenuation.

41. The method as recited in claim 33 wherein the series of two-dimensional images comprises computed tomography images.

42. The method as recited in claim 41 wherein the computed tomography images comprise helical computed tomography images.

57. The method as recited in claim 33 wherein the region of interest comprises a colon wall.

58. The method as recited in claim 33 wherein the segmentation step comprises a thresholding step for determining threshold values corresponding to the selected values of the physical property to isolate the region of interest.

34. A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. a cleansing step for cleansing the colon;

b. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;

c. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

d. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

e. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

35. A method for interactive displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. a colon preparation step for inflating the colon with gas;

b. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;

c. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

d. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

e. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

43. A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;

b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the region of interest comprises an air-tissue interface; and

d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

44. A method for interactively displaying colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;

b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

c. a data reduction step for reducing the size of the volume of data;

d. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

e. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

45. The method as recited in claim 44 wherein the reduction step comprises reducing pixel resolution.

46. The method as recited in claim 45 wherein the pixel resolution is reduced to 8 bits per pixel.

47. The method as recited in claim 44 wherein the reduction step comprises reducing spatial resolution.

48. The method as recited in claim 47 wherein the spatial resolution is reduced to 256 pixels by 256 pixels.

49. The method as recited in claim 44 wherein the reduction step comprises creating a subvolume of data.

50. The method as recited in claim 49 wherein the subvolume is a subvolume containing at least one of the rectum, the sigmoid colon, the descending colon, the splenic flexure, the transverse colon, the hepatic flexure, the ascending colon, and the cecum.

51. A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;

b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment, wherein the rendering step comprises simulating movement along a line which passes along the center of the lumen of the colon.

52. A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;

b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional image in computer memory;

c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment, wherein the rendering step comprises splitting the colon open in lengthwise sections and displaying the split open colon so that inner surfaces of the split open colon are visible.

53. A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;

b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume;

data is formed by staking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of property representing the region of interest, wherein the segmentation step comprises a step of determining colon wall thickness; and

d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional displays therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

54. The method as recited in claim 53 wherein the step of determining the colon wall thickness comprises displaying a cross-sectional image through the colon.

55. The method as recited in claim 53 wherein the step of determining colon wall thickness comprises a step of identifying a thickened section of the colon by differentiating a thickened section on a displayed image from normal thickness of the colon wall.

56. A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;

b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the region of interest comprises an air column; and

d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

59. A method for interactively aging a colon in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;

b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the segmentation step comprises a thresholding step for determining threshold values corresponding to the selected values of the physical property to isolate the region of interest;

d. a wireframe model forming step for forming an isosurface wireframe model of the isolated region of interest; and

e. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

60. The method as recited in claim 59 wherein the step of rendering an image includes the step of rendering a three-dimensional display of the wireframe model.

61. A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

A. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;

B. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

C. a data reduction step for reducing the size of the volume of data before rendering the segmented region of interest, wherein the size of the volume of data is reduced to less than about 10 megabytes;

D. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

E. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display.

62. A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising;

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;

b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display for interaction with internal surfaces of the segmented region of interest, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

64. The method as recited in claim 62 wherein the series of two-dimensional images comprises images taken at regularly spaced grid locations within the body.

65. The method as recited in claim 64 wherein the spacing between successive grid locations is selected to produce isocubic voxels for three-dimensional display.

66. The method as recited in claim 64 wherein the series of two-dimensional images comprises images taken at 1 mm regularly spaced grid locations within the body.

67. The method as recited in claim 64 wherein the physical property includes x-ray attenuation.

68. The method as recited in claim 64 wherein the series of two-dimensional images comprises computed tomography images.

69. The method as recited in claim 68 wherein the computed tomography images comprise helical computed tomography images.

70. The method as recited in claim 64 wherein the spacing between successive grid locations is selected to produce an overlap between successive images.

78. The method as recited in claim 62 wherein a portion of the tracheobronchial airway is rendered transparent.

81. The method as recited in claim 62 wherein the region of interest comprises a tracheobronchial wall.

82. The method as recited in claim 62 wherein the segmentation step comprises a thresholding step for determining threshold values corresponding to the selected values of the physical property to isolate the region of interest.

63. A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired, wherein the image acquisition step comprises a patient preparation step wherein a patient is administered a nonionic intravenous iodinated contrast bolus;

b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

71. A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;

b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the region of interest comprises an air column; and

d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

72. A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;

b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

c. a data reduction step for reducing the size of the volume of data;

d. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected valves of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

e. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

73. The method as recited in claim 72 wherein the reduction step comprises reducing pixel resolution.

74. The method as recited in claim 73 wherein the pixel resolution is reduced to 8 bits per pixel.

75. The method as recited in claim 72 wherein the reduction step comprises reducing spatial resolution.

76. The method as recited in claim 75 wherein the spatial resolution is reduced to 256 pixels by 256 pixels.

77. The method as recited in claim 72 wherein the reduction step comprises creating a subvolume of data.

79. A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising;

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of physical property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;

b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of physical property representing the region of interest; and

a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest if rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment, wherein a portion of the tracheobronchial airway is rendered semitransparent.

80. A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;

b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the region of interest comprises an air-tissue interface; and

d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

83. A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the tracheobronchial three is acquired;

b. a volume formation step wherein a three-dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking a series of two-dimensional images in contour memory;

c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the segmentation step comprises a thresholding step for determining threshold values corresponding to the selected values of the physical property to isolate the region of interest;

d. a wireframe model forming step for forming an isosurface wireframe model of the isolated region of interest; and

e. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

84. The method as recited in claim 83 wherein the rendering step includes the step of rendering a three-dimensional display of the wireframe model.

85. A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

A. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical Property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;

B. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

C. a data reduction step for reducing the size of the volume of data before rendering the segmented region of interest, the reduction step comprising creating a subvolume of data, wherein the subvolume comprises the mediastinum;

D. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

E. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display.

86. A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

A. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical Property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;

B. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

C. a data reduction step for reducing the size of the volume of data before rendering the segmented region of interest, wherein the size of the data is reduced to less than about 10 megabytes;

D. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

E. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display.

87. A system for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;

b. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

c. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display for interaction with internal surfaces of the segmented region of interest, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional, environment.

88. The system as recited in claim 87 wherein the series of two-dimensional images comprises images taken at regularly spaced grid locations within the body.

89. The system as recited in claim 88 wherein the spacing between successive grid locations is selected to produce isocubic voxels for three-dimensional display.

90. The system as recited in claim 88 wherein the series of two-dimensional images comprises images taken at 1 mm regularly spaced grid locations within the body.

91. The system as recited in claim 88 wherein the series of two-dimensional images comprises computed tomography images.

92. The system as recited in claim 91 wherein the computed tomography images comprise helical computed tomography images.

97. The system as recited in claim 87 wherein the segmentation means comprises a thresholding means for determining a threshold range used to isolate the region of interest.

107. The system as recited in claim 87 comprising external map means for displaying an external map of the three-dimensional display.

108. The system as recited in claim 107 wherein the external map means comprises indication means for indicating the position of the three-dimensional display.

109. The system as recited in claim 87 wherein the rendering means includes transparency means for rendering a portion of the region of interest transparent.

93. A system for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional-volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

b. reduction means for reducing the size of the volume of data;

c. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

d. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

94. The system as recited in claim 93 wherein the reduction means comprises means for reducing pixel resolution.

95. The system as recited in claim 93 wherein the reduction means comprises means for reducing the spatial resolution.

96. The system as recited in claim 93 wherein the reduction means comprises means for creating a subvolume of data.

98. A system for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

b. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing he region of interest, wherein the segmentation means comprises a thresholding means for determining a threshold range used to isolate the region of interest;

c. means for producing a wireframe model of the isolated region of interest; and

d. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment.

99. The system as recited in claim 98 wherein the rendering means comprises simulation means for simulating movement through the wireframe model.

100. A system for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;

b. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest front the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;

c. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment; and

d. assignment means for assigning at least one point of interest along the segmented region of interest rendered in the displayed three-dimensional display.

101. The system as recited in claim 100 comprising indication means for indicating the position of the point of interest on an external map of the three-dimensional display.

102. The system as recited in claim 101 comprising selection means for selecting the point of interest from the external map and for causing the display of the rendered segmented region of interest as viewed from the position of the point of interest.

103. A system for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

b. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest;

c. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment; and

d. selection means for selecting a point which lies within the segmented region of interest and displaying a two-dimensional image which lies in a plane passing through the selected point.

104. The system as recited in claim 103 wherein the plane is an axial plane.

105. The system as recited in claim 103 wherein the plane is a sagittal plane.

106. The system as recited in claim 103 wherein the plane is a coronal plane.

110. A system for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;

b. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

c. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment, wherein the rendering means includes transparency means for rendering a portion of the region of interest semi-transparent.

111. A system for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;

b. segmetation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the property representing the region of interest; and

c. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interractive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment, wherein the rendering means includes splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying means for displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible.

112. The system as recited in claim 111 wherein the splitting means includes center line splitting means for splitting open the three-dimensional display of the segmented region of interest along a line which passes along a center of the three-dimensional display of the segmented region of interest.

113. A system for interactively displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;

b. implementation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

c. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment, wherein the rendering means comprises simulation means for simulating movement along a center while through the segmented region of interest of the three-dimensional display.

114. A system for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising:

A. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

B. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the segmentation means comprises;

1. a thresholding means for determining a threshold range used to isolate the region of interest, wherein the thresholding means comprises;

a. a threshold selection means for selecting the threshold range; and

b. a threshold adjustment means for adjusting the threshold range; and

C. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display.

115. The system as recited in claim 114 wherein the threshold adjustment means comprises:

a. orthoslice means for taking an orthoslice through the region of interest to produce an orthoslice image; and

b. display means for displaying the orthoslice image and a corresponding thresholded image, so that the threshold values can be adjusted while comparing the thresholded image to the corresponding orthoslice image.

116. A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest, wherein the step of segmenting the selected region of interest comprises a region growing step; and

C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display.

117. A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest; and

C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, wherein the rendering step includes the steps of splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections along a line which passes along the center of the three-dimensional display and displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible, wherein the step of splitting the three-dimensional display open along a line which passes along the center of the three-dimensional display includes the steps of;

a. selecting a seed point which lies within the region of interest;

b. determining a plane of minimum area through the region of interest that passes through the seed point;

c. determining the center point of the region of interest that is dissected by the plane of minimum area; and

d. selecting a point which is spaced from the center point in a perpendicular direction relative to the plane of minimum area.

118. A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest; and

C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, wherein the rendering step includes the steps of splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections along a line which passes along the center of the three-dimensional display and displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible, wherein the step of splitting the three-dimensional display open along a line which passes along the center of the three-dimensional display includes the steps of;

a. iteratively eroding the region of interest until all of the region of interest disappears, thereby determining the last portion of the region of interest to disappear; and

b. connecting the last portion of the region of interest to disappear by erosion.

119. A method for displaying three-dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

a. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

b. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest; and

c. rendering the segmented region of interest in a three-dimensional display including the steps of splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections, therein producing an interactive, cross-sectional, three-dimensional rendering and displaying the interactive, cross-sectional, three-dimensional rendering so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible.

120. The method as recited in claim 119 wherein the splitting step includes the step of splitting the three-dimensional display open along a line which passes along the center of the three-dimensional display.

121. The method as recited in claim 119 wherein the splitting step includes the steps of:

a. defining a cutting plane through the segmented region of interest; and

b. rendering all portions of the three-dimensional display on one side of the cutting plane transparent.

122. A method for displaying three-dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one Physical Property associated with a three dimensional body;

B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest; and

C. rendering the segmented region of interest in a three-dimensional display including the steps of splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible, wherein the splitting step includes the step of splitting the three-dimensional display open alone a line which passes along the center of the three-dimensional display, wherein the step of splitting the three-dimensional display open along a line which passes along the center of the three-dimensional display includes the steps of;

1. selecting a seed point which lies within the region of interest;

2. determining a plane of minimum area through the region of interest that passes through the seed point;

3. determining the center point of the region of interest that is dissected by the plane of minimum area; and

4. selecting a point which is spaced from the center point in a perpendicular direction relative to the plane of minimum area.

123. A method for displaying three-dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;

B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical Property representing the selected region of interest; and

C. rendering the segmented region of interest in a three-dimensional display including the steps of splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible, wherein the splitting step includes the step of splitting the three-dimensional display open along a line which passes along the center of the three-dimensional display, wherein the step of splitting the three-dimensional display open along a line which passes along the center of the three-dimensional display includes the steps of;

1. iteratively eroding the region of interest until all of the region of interest disappears, thereby determining the last portions of the region of interest to disappear; and

2. connecting the last portions of the region of interest to disappear by erosion.

124. A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest;

C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, therein producing a virtual three-dimensional environment; and

D. simulating movement along a center line through the segmented region of interest of the virtual three-dimensional environment.

125. A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one Physical Property associated with a three dimensional body;

B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest;

C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display; and

D. simulating movement along a center line through the segmented region of interest of the three-dimensional display, wherein the step of simulating movement along the center line through the segmented region of interest of the three-dimensional display includes the steps of;

1. selecting a seed point which lies within the region of interest;

2. determining a plane of minimum area through the region of interest that passes through the seed point;

3. determining the center point of the region of interest that is dissected by the plane of minimum area; and

4. selecting a point which is spaced from the center point in a perpendicular direction relative to the plane of minimum area.

126. A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

B. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest;

C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display; and

D. simulating movement along a center line through the segmented region of interest of the three-dimensional display, wherein the step of simulating movement along the center line through the segmented region of interest of the three-dimensional display includes the steps of;

1. iteratively eroding the region of interest until all of the region of interest disappears, thereby determining the last portions of the region of interest to disappear; and

2. connecting the last portions to disappear by erosion.

127. A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

A. an opacification step for homogeneously opacifying feces;

B. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired after the opacification step;

C. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

D. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

E. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display.

128. A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

A. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;

B. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

C. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, the segmentation step comprising a thresholding step for determining a threshold range corresponding to the selected values of the physical property to isolate the region of interest, wherein the thresholding step comprises;

1. a threshold selection step for selecting the threshold range corresponding to the selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

2. a threshold adjustment step for adjusting the threshold range to provide the threshold range for isolating the region of interest; and

D. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display.

129. The method as recited in claim 128 wherein the threshold adjustment step comprises:

a. an orthoslice step of providing an orthoslice through the volume of data; and

b. a display step for displaying the orthoslice and a corresponding thresholded image of the orthoslice, so that the threshold values can be adjusted while comparing the thresholded image to the corresponding orthoslice.

130. A method for interactively displaying a colon in three dimensions comprising:

A. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the colon is acquired;

B. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

C. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest related to the colon is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the segmentation step comprises a region growing step; and

D. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display.

131. A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

A. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;

B. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional image in computer memory;

C. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, the segmentation step comprises a thresholding step for determining a threshold range corresponding to the selected values of the physical property to isolate the region of interest, wherein the thresholding step comprises;

1. a threshold selection step for selecting the threshold range corresponding to the selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

2. a threshold adjustment step for adjusting the threshold range to provide the threshold range for isolating the region of interest; and

D. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display.

132. The method as recited in claim 131 wherein the threshold adjustment step comprises:

a. an orthoslice step of providing an orthoslice through the volume of data; and

b. a display step for displaying the orthoslice and a corresponding thresholded image of the orthoslice, so that the threshold values can be adjusted while comparing the thresholded image to the corresponding orthoslice.

133. A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

A. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;

B. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional images in computer memory;

C. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the segmentation step comprises a region growing step; and

D. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display.

134. A system for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising:

A. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;

B. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

C. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, wherein the rendering means includes splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying means for displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three dimensional display are visible, wherein the splitting means includes center line splitting means for splitting open the three-dimensional display of the segmented region of interest along a line which passes along a center of the three-dimensional display of the segmented region of interest, wherein the center line splitting means includes;

1. selection means for selecting a seed point which lies within the region of interest;

2. plane determining means for determining a plane of minimum area through the region of interest that passes through the seed point;

3. center point determining means for determining the center point of the region of interest that is dissected by the plane of minimum area; and

4. point selecting means for selecting a new point which is spaced from the previous center point in a perpendicular direction relative to the plane of minimum area.

135. A system for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising:

A. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

B. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

C. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, wherein the rendering means includes splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying means for displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three dimensional display are visible, wherein the splitting means includes center line splitting means for splitting open the three-dimensional display of the segmented region of interest along a line which passes along a center of the three-dimensional display of the segmented region of interest, wherein the center line splitting means includes;

1. erosion means for iteratively eroding the region of interest until all of the region of interest disappears, thereby determining the last portions of the region of interest to disappear; and

2. connection means for connecting the last portions of the region of interest to disappear by erosion.

136. A system for displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three dimensional volume of data from a series of two dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;

b. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

c. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in a three-dimensional display, including splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections therein producing an interactive, cross-sectional three-dimensional rendering and displaying means for displaying the three-dimensional rendering so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible.

137. The system as recited in claim 136 wherein the splitting means includes center line splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open along a center line through the three-dimensional display of the segmented region of interest.

138. The system as recited in claim 136 wherein the splitting means includes:

a. plane defining means for defining a cutting plane through the three-dimensional display of the segmented region of interest; and

b. transparency means for rendering all portions of the three-dimensional display on one side of the cutting plane transparent.

139. A system for displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

A. volume formation means for forming a three dimensional volume of data from a series of two dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;

B. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

C. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in a three-dimensional display, including splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying means for displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible, wherein the splitting means includes center line splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open along a center line through the three-dimensional display of the segmented region of interest, wherein the center line splitting means includes;

1. selection means for selecting a seed point which lies within the region of interest;

2. plane determining means for determining a plane of minimum area through the segmented region of interest that passes through the seed point;

3. center point determining means for determining the center point of the region of interest that is dissected by the plane of minimum area; and

4. point selecting means for selecting a point which is spaced from the center point in a perpendicular direction relative to the plane of minimum area.

140. A system for displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

A. volume formation means for forming a three dimensional volume of data from a series of two dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;

B. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

C. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in a three-dimensional display, including splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying means for displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible, wherein the splitting means includes center line splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open along a center line through the three-dimensional display of the segmented region of interest, wherein the center line splitting means includes;

1. erosion means for iteratively eroding the region of interest until all of the region of interest disappears, thereby determining the last portions of the region of interest to disappear; and

2. connection means for connecting the last portions of the region of interest to disappear by erosion.

141. A system for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising:

A. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

B. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

C. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, wherein the rendering means comprises simulation means for simulating movement along a center line through the segmented region of interest of the three-dimensional display, wherein the simulation means includes;

1. selection means for selecting a seed point which lies within the region of interest;

2. plane determining means for determining a plane of minimum area through the segmented region of interest that passes through the seed point;

3. center point determining means for determining the center point of the region of interest that is dissected by the plane of minimum area; and

4. point selecting means for selecting a point which is spaced from the center point in a perpendicular direction relative to the plane of minimum area.

142. A system for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising:

A. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

B. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest; and

C. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display, wherein the rendering means comprises simulation means for simulating movement along a center line through the segmented region of interest of the three-dimensional display, wherein the simulation means includes;

1. erosion means for iteratively eroding the region of interest until all of the region of interest disappears, thereby determining the last portions of the region of interest to disappear; and

2. connection means for connecting the last portions of the region of interest to disappear by erosion.

143. A method for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

A. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

B. segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest, wherein the segmentation step comprises a step of determining thickness of the region of interest; and

C. rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display.

144. The method recited in claim 143 wherein the step of determining thickness of the region of interest comprises displaying a cross-sectional image through the region of interest.

145. The method recited in claim 143 wherein the step of determining thickness of the region of interest comprises the step of identifying a thickened section of the region of interest by differentiating a thickened section on a displayed image from the normal thickness of the region of interest.

146. A method for interactively displaying a tracheobronchial airway in three dimensions comprising:

a. an image acquisition step wherein a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the tracheobronchial tree is acquired;

b. a volume formation step wherein a three dimensional volume of data is formed by stacking the series of two-dimensional image in computer memory;

c. a segmentation step wherein a region of interest is segmented from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the segmentation step comprises a step of determining tracheobronchial airway thickness; and

d. a rendering step wherein the segmented region of interest is rendered in an interactive three-dimensional display.

147. The method recited in claim 146 wherein the step of determining the tracheobronchial airway thickness comprises displaying a cross-sectional image through the tracheobronchial airway.

148. The method recited in claim 146 wherein the step of determining tracheobronchial airway thickness comprises the step of identifying a thickened section of the tracheobronchial airway by differentiating a thickened section on a displayed image from the normal thickness of the tracheobronchial airway.

149. A system for interactively displaying three dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

b. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the segmentation means comprises a means for determining thickness of the region of interest; and

c. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in an interactive three-dimensional display.

150. The system as recited in claim 149 wherein the means for determining thickness of the region of interest comprises a means for displaying a cross-sectional image through the region of interest.

151. The system recited in claim 149 wherein the means for determining thickness of the region of interest comprises a means for identifying a thickened section of the region of interest by differentiating a thickened section on a displayed image from the normal thickness of the region of interest.

152. A system for displaying three-dimensional structures comprising:

a. volume formation means for forming a three dimensional volume of data from a series of two dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three-dimensional body;

b. segmentation means for segmenting a region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the region of interest, wherein the segmentation means comprises a means for determining thickness of the region of interest; and

c. rendering means for rendering the segmented region of interest in a three-dimensional display, including splitting means for splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying means for displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible.

153. The system recited in claim 152 wherein the means for determining thickness of the region of interest comprises a means for displaying a cross-sectional image through the region of interest.

154. The system recited in claim 152 wherein the means for determining thickness of the region of interest comprises means for identifying a thickened section of the region of interest by differentiating a thickened section on a displayed image from the normal thickness of the region of interest.

155. A method for displaying three-dimensional structures comprising the steps of:

a. forming a three-dimensional volume of data from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with a three dimensional body;

b. segmenting a selected region of interest from the volume of data based on selected values of the physical property representing the selected region of interest, wherein segmenting the region of interest comprises determining the thickness of the region of interest; and

c. rendering the segmented region of interest in a three-dimensional display including the steps of splitting the three-dimensional display open in selected split open sections and displaying the split open sections so that inner surfaces of the split three-dimensional display are visible.

156. The method recited in claim 155 wherein determining the thickness of the region of interest comprises identifying a thickened section of the region of interest by differentiating a thickened section on a displayed image from the normal thickness of the region of interest.