Initial experience with cinematic rendering for chest cardiovascular imaging

Three-dimensional (3D) CT with volume rendering and maximum intensity projection is an integral component of CT interpretation for diagnosis and treatment planning of vascular pathology. Cinematic rendering is a new rendering algorithm that incorporates a more advanced lighting model than that used for volume rendering, to create photorealistic 3D CT images. The post-processing tool is not yet widely available and its ultimate clinical utility has yet to be assessed in well-designed studies. Nonetheless, the striking level of detail and enhanced depiction of 3D anatomic relationships holds potential for improvements in diagnosis, interventional or operative planning and patient-centred care. In this pictorial essay, a series of complex cardiovascular cases are presented to demonstrate the enhanced display capabilities associated with cinematic rendering, and the utility to guide patient management and understanding is discussed.