NORMAL FUSION FOR 3-DIMENSIONAL INTEGRATED VISUALIZATION OF SPECT ANDMAGNETIC-RESONANCE BRAIN IMAGES

Multimodality visualization aims at efficiently presenting integrated information obtained from different modalities, usually combining a fu nctional modality (SPECT, PET, functional magnetic resonance imaging) with an anatomical modality [CT, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)]. Th is paper presents a technique for three-dimensional integrated visuali zation of SPECT and magnetic resonance brain images, where MRI is used as a framework of reference for the display of the SPECT data. Method s: A novel technique for three-dimensional integrated visualization of functional and anatomical information, called normal fusion, is prese nted. With this technique, local functional information is projected o nto an anatomic structure. Results: The normal fusion technique is app lied to three cases of SPECT/MRI integration. The results are presente d, discussed and evaluated for clinical relevance. Conclusion: The res ults for three-dimensional integrated display of SPECT and MR brain im ages indicate that the normal fusion technique provides a potentially comprehensive and diagnostically valuable presentation of cerebral blo od perfusion in relation to the anatomy of the brain.