Three-Dimensional Coronary Visualization, Part 1: Modeling

Three-dimensional (3D) modeling techniques have been developed for clinical use to minimize the imaging limitations of two-dimensional (2D) angiography. The 3D models of the coronary arterial tree not only accurately display the complexities of coronary anatomy but also enable quantification of vessel curvature, measurement of vessel segment length, and identification of the amount of radiographic foreshortening and vessel overlap in any simulated angiographic projection. This article describes the process and applications associated with producing a 3D model of the coronary arterial tree using only a few standard 2D projection images from a routine coronary angiographic study.