Comparison of three methods used for fusion of SPECT-CT images of liver metastases

We compare three methods for fusing SPECT-CT images: ImageMatch - an automatic three-dimensional/two-dimensional method developed by Focus Imaging; IBM Visualization Data Explorer - a three-dimensional interactive method developed by International Business Machines, Inc.; and qsh - an interactive three-dimensional/two-dimensional method developed at New York University. While many fusion methods have proved successful for registering brain images, most methods have been less successful for thoracic and abdominal images. We use images of liver metastases obtained with a radiolabeled breast tumor-directed antibody to illustrate the strengths and weaknesses of the methods reviewed. The images used are typical clinical images from eight patients. We conclude that an optimal image fusion program should combine the strengths of each of the methods reviewed.