3D Imaging

Radiology has had a 3D imaging service since the 1990s. In the past two years, we have formalized our program as a 3D imaging division, hiring a cardiologist, Dr. Zhenwu Zhuang, to work 20 hours per week doing 3D reconstructions.

In the past, all cross-sectional images were shown in 2D axial format, with reconstructions possible in coronal or sagittal planes, or curved replanar format. The plane of imaging now has become irrelevant. Our current 3D workstations use ISOVOXEL technology, so there is no loss of resolution in images reformatted in any plane.

Equipment
Radiology's Body CT division owns five 3D workstations (three from Vital Images, two from GE) which produce remarkably lifelike 3D images. Also, our newest PET/CT workstations allow for 3D reformatting of PET/CT images. Surgeons have traditionally loved to see 3D models of their patients' anatomy to help with surgical planning, and now that 3D imaging studies are reimbursable, we expect increased demand for 3D imaging, and even 4D imaging - showing a 3D model varying over time, such as a video of a beating heart. We expect this imaging to become a routine part of every patient's care, and we expect to increase staff and equipment in the next several years to accommodate such growth.

Staff
Michael Tsapakos, MD, PhD, Director