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Glossary Term
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Image Fusion

Definition

Image fusion is the process of combining information from two or more images from different modalities or sources into a single, enhanced image. This technique leverages the strengths of each imaging modality to provide a comprehensive representation, improving diagnostic accuracy, treatment planning, and monitoring in medical applications.

Relevance to the MedTech Industry

Image fusion enhances medical diagnostics and interventions by combining complementary data from imaging modalities, such as anatomical detail from CT or MRI with functional information from PET or SPECT scans. This integrated approach supports precise localization of abnormalities, better treatment planning, and improved outcomes.

Additional Information & Related Terms

Types of Image Fusion in Medical Imaging

  1. Spatial Image Fusion

    • Aligns images from different modalities spatially.

    • Example: Combining a CT scan with an MRI for detailed anatomical and soft tissue contrast.

  2. Functional and Anatomical Fusion

    • Integrates functional data (e.g., PET or SPECT) with anatomical data (e.g., CT or MRI).

    • Example: PET-CT for identifying cancerous lesions and their precise anatomical locations.

  3. Multispectral Image Fusion

    • Merges images acquired at different wavelengths or spectral ranges.

    • Example: Merging data from optical coherence tomography (OCT) with fluorescence imaging.

  4. Temporal Image Fusion

    • Combines images captured at different times to monitor changes.

    • Example: Comparing pre- and post-treatment imaging to assess therapy response.

Examples of Applications in Medicine

  1. Oncology:

    • PET-CT for locating tumors and planning radiation therapy.

    • MRI-CT fusion for precise surgical planning in brain or prostate cancers.

  2. Neurology:

    • Combining fMRI with structural MRI for brain mapping in epilepsy or tumor surgery.

  3. Cardiology:

    • Fusion of cardiac CT and nuclear perfusion imaging to evaluate coronary artery disease.

  4. Orthopedics:

    • Merging CT and MRI data for detailed visualization of bone and soft tissue injuries.

  5. Radiotherapy Planning:

    • Integrating CT for dose calculations and MRI for tumor delineation to optimize radiation delivery.

Related Terms

  • Multimodal Imaging: The use of multiple imaging techniques to assess a condition comprehensively.

  • Image Registration: The process of aligning images from different modalities or time points.

  • PET-CT: A hybrid imaging system that combines positron emission tomography (PET) with computed tomography (CT).

  • Functional Imaging: Techniques like PET or fMRI that provide metabolic or physiological information.

  • Image Processing: Techniques used to enhance, analyze, and manipulate images for diagnostic or research purposes.

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