Interactive three dimensional modeling of localized prostate cancer: Computer simulation of needle biopsy technique

Introduction and Objectives: Ultrasound guided systematic sextant core needle biopsies of the prostate are commonly used for the detection of prostate cancer. The objective of this study is to evaluate the validity of adequate tumor sampling and tumor volume estimation of this procedure using an interactive three-dimensional (3-D) mode 1 of the prostate with simulated core needle biopsy technique. Methods : Based on 80 surgical specimens of the prostate, an interactive three-dimensional model of the prostate utilizing simulated core needle biopsy technique was developed using nonlinear elastic interpolation and deformable surface modeling techniques. To simulate actual image-guided needle biopsy procedures, a virtual environment was developed; with an enhanced 3-D computer graphics (open inventor) and user friendly interface (MOTIF) to visualize and manipulate the computerized 3-D prostate models. Various ultrasound-like probes were nimulated to provide axial and longitudinal oriented sectional images for accurate needle pathways. Needles with and without triggers were constructed and simulated to perform actual biopsy on the 3-D computerized prostate models according to planned needle pathways Results: As a result of our advanced reconstruction method, the reconstructed 3-D prostate model provides accurate shape representation and spatial relationships of the prosrate capsule, urethra, seminal vesicles, ejaculatory ducts, carcinoma and areas of PIN. With an accurate 3-D prostate model and realistic imaging probes and needles provided by our virtual simulation system, the urologist can sit before the computer and realistically simulate biopsy procedures. Conclusions : By analyzing outcomes of this 3-D prostate model with simulated actual image-guided needle biopsy techniques, we can validate the effectiveness of the biopsy technique for prostate cancer detection and tumor volume estimation.

Duke Scholars

Author Judd Wendell Moul Urology