Howe, Robert D.Brattain, Laura2014-06-062014-06-062014Brattain, Laura. 2014. Enhanced Ultrasound Visualization for Procedure Guidance. Doctoral dissertation, Harvard University.http://dissertations.umi.com/gsas.harvard:11649http://nrs.harvard.edu/urn-3:HUL.InstRepos:12274527Intra-cardiac procedures often involve fast-moving anatomic structures with large spatial extent and high geometrical complexity. Real-time visualization of the moving structures and instrument-tissue contact is crucial to the success of these procedures. Real-time 3D ultrasound is a promising modality for procedure guidance as it offers improved spatial orientation information relative to 2D ultrasound. Imaging rates at 30 fps enable good visualization of instrument-tissue interactions, far faster than the volumetric imaging alternatives (MR/CT). Unlike fluoroscopy, 3D ultrasound also allows better contrast of soft tissues, and avoids the use of ionizing radiation.en-USBiomedical engineeringGPUimage processingprocedure guidanceroboticsultrasoundvisualizationThesis or Dissertation2014-12-04