Three-Dimensional Vascular Networks MODEL-BASED 3-D RECONSTRUCTION OF BRANCHING VESSELS

ABSTRACT where N is assumed Gaussian. This model is exact for MR angiogra-This paper describes a new approach to the problem of reconstruct-ing a 3-D arterial tree model from a few angiographic projections. We first develop a natural optimality criterion that defines the globally best reconstruction, and then outline an algorithm that maximizes this criterion. The criterion is a compromise between the conflicting goals of measurement likelihood and object smoothness. Our approach uses a parametric model for the arterial tree, with a new, more accurate model for bifurcations. The algorithm is demonstrated on simulated projections and on magnetic resonance (MR) images