Research & Development of Medical Image Data Transmission and Reception and 3-Dimensional Space Display Technology

Abstract

Technology exists that doctors can use to create three-dimensional models from CT images using DICOM. This technology can aid in creating three-dimensional bone models without performing a surgical procedure. Using these three-dimensional models (STL), we can plan a surgery as well as verify its accuracy. Image analysis technicians receive the DICOM data and create a model using this data according to a doctor's instruction. However, because the capacity of DICOM data is large and confidentiality is high, data exchange becomes difficult. In addition, communicating a three-dimensional model using the telephone or through e-mail is inconvenient. To resolve the problem of exchange of DICOM data, our study describes research and development efforts in the following. (1) Compression technology for improved performance. (2) Communication technology for stress reduction. (3) 3D viewer technology for communication of three-dimensional models. This research and development was carried out as an initiative for the creation of a new business in the Okinawa Prefecture.