Computed Tomography Cinematic Rendering in the Evaluation of Colonic Pathology: Technique and Clinical Applications

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) visualizations of computed tomography (CT) data have found use in the display of complex anatomy and pathology. A new method of 3D CT image creation known as cinematic rendering (CR) makes use of a global lighting model to produce photorealistic images. Cinematic rendering images contain high levels of detail with shadowing and depth that are not available from traditional 3D CT techniques. As yet, the role of CR in evaluating colonic pathology has not been investigated. However, given the breadth of pathologic processes that affect the colon, including inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, neoplastic conditions, herniation, and gastrointestinal bleeding, we undertook a survey of recent cases at our institution to demonstrate colon pathology as visualized with CR. The following review discusses the role of 3D CT visualizations for colonic pathology with an emphasis on CR example images.

Multimodal imaging appearance including cinematic rendering of renal malakoplakia in a patient with E. coli bacteremia

“…To our knowledge, this is the first time that this technique has been used in a case of renal malakoplakia. Cinematic rendering incorporates a complex lighting model that traces the path of photons projected over materials within a specific volume to generate a 3D image [13] . Use of cinematic rendering can aid in characterization of pathology due to use of photorealistic lighting, more accurate vascular mapping, and estimation of organ and lesion characteristics including texture and density [13] .…”

Path Tracing vs. Volume Rendering Technique in Post-Surgical Assessment of Bone Flap in Oncologic Head and Neck Reconstructive Surgery: A Preliminary Study

“…The newest technique allows elaborating photorealistic representation of volumetric data with a more natural shape, shadows and depth of field. PT, also called Cinematic Rendering (CR), has already been demonstrated to be feasible in multiple clinical situations, such as gastro-intestinal [ 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 ], genito-urinary [ 20 , 21 , 22 ], cardiovascular [ 23 , 24 , 25 ] and musculoskeletal imaging [ 26 ]. However, most papers on PT or CR usually showcase the technique without evaluating the benefits of these kinds of images generated.…”

Initial experience with cinematic rendering for the visualization of extracardiac anatomy in complex congenital heart defects†

“…Trotz der immensen Fortschritte der Bildgebung [72][73][74][75], Nephrologie [76,77], Rheumatologie [78,79], Rechtsmedizin [80][81][82], Neurologie [83] und Gynäkologie [84]. Es wurde sogar eine CR-Rekonstruktion der fötalen Anatomie in utero durchgeführt [85] Weiterhin danke ich allen Mitarbeitern der kinderkardiologischen Abteilung, die immer ausgesprochen freundlich waren und mir bei allen organisatorischen Herausforderungen sehr geholfen haben.…”