Patient-specific Virtual Reality Simulation of Punctures Using Puncture AtlasesThe aim of this project is to enable the patient-specific virtual reality training of minimal-invasive puncture procedures using special atlases. One topic of the project is the development of multi-altas methods for automated segmentation of the relevant organs and structures. Furthermore, efficient algorithms for volume-based haptic, visual simulation and soft tissue deformation are developed. Soft-tissue deformations should be computed in real-time using a volume-based simulation method. The implementation of computationally expensive algorithms on graphics hardware guarantees the real-time capability of the simulation algorithms.

Within the project a prototype of a VR simulator is set up (Fig. 1). The methods are developed and evaluated in cooperation with clinical partners.