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[Construction and use of a virtual anthropomorphic phantom of the bronchial tree]
1Institut für Medizinische Physik, Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg. Markus.Blank@imp.uni-erlangen.de
Motivation:
Usually, phantoms are used to quantify properties of computer algorithms working on spiral CT data. The high complexity of the human bronchial tree, however, complicates the construction of a physical phantom enormously; hence, a virtual phantom must be employed.
Methods:
Because the human bronchial tree is fractal, Lindenmayer systems were utilized to generate its structure. Applying the correct diameter and length ratios and branching angles, a virtual anthropomorphic phantom could be generated by a three-dimensional turtle graphic. The simulation of a spiral CT measurement on the virtual phantom delivered synthetic spiral CT data.
Results:
The computer-controlled growing process supplies exact morphologic and morphometric data. The spiral CT simulation saves the time-consuming and complicated generation of a physical phantom.
Perspective:
The virtual phantom can be completed by the introduction of blood vessels and lung parenchyma partitioned into lobes and segments. The field of application can thus be extended.