InVesalius

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InVesalius is an open-source software project developed by the Centro de Tecnologia da Informação Renato Archer (CTI Renato Archer) in Brazil. It is designed for the reconstruction of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, enabling the generation of three-dimensional models of anatomical structures. The primary goal of InVesalius is to provide a tool for health professionals, researchers, and students in the field of medicine and biomedical engineering to facilitate the visualization and analysis of medical images.

Overview

InVesalius works by processing DICOM files (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine), which are a standard format for storing medical imaging information. The software allows users to import these files from CT and MRI scans and then reconstructs them into 3D models. These models can be used for a variety of purposes, including pre-surgical planning, educational purposes, and research.

The software is known for its user-friendly interface, making it accessible to users who may not have extensive experience in medical imaging. It provides a range of tools for manipulating and analyzing the 3D models, including cutting planes, measurements, and annotations.

Features

• 3D Reconstruction: InVesalius generates 3D models from CT and MRI scans, providing a detailed view of anatomical structures.
• DICOM Support: The software supports the DICOM standard, ensuring compatibility with images from various medical imaging equipment.
• Segmentation: Users can segment the 3D models to isolate specific anatomical structures for detailed study or surgical planning.
• Export Options: The 3D models can be exported in various formats, making them compatible with other software and 3D printing technologies.
• Cross-platform: InVesalius is available for multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, ensuring wide accessibility.

Applications

InVesalius has been applied in several areas of medicine and biomedical research. Some of its applications include:

• Pre-surgical Planning: Surgeons use the 3D models generated by InVesalius to plan surgical procedures, reducing surgery time and improving outcomes.
• Educational Tool: Medical and biomedical engineering students use the software to study anatomy and understand the spatial relationships between anatomical structures.
• Custom Prosthesis Design: The software is used to design custom prostheses and surgical guides, particularly in orthopedics and maxillofacial surgery.
• Research: Researchers use InVesalius in various fields, including anatomy, orthopedics, and neurology, to study the structure and function of the human body.

Development and Availability

InVesalius is developed by the CTI Renato Archer, a research center in Brazil, with contributions from the global open-source community. The software is freely available under a GPL license, encouraging its use, modification, and distribution.

See Also

• Computed Tomography (CT)
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM)
• 3D Printing in Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering