Cinematic rendering of cardiac CT volumetric data: Principles and initial observations

Background: Cinematic rendering (CR) a new method of 3D computed tomography (CT) volumetric visualization that produces photorealistic images. As with traditional 3D visualization methods, CR may prove to be of value in providing important information when evaluating regions of complex anatomy such as the heart. Methods: The gated, IV contrast-enhanced chest CT angiogram data from three recent patients were evaluated with CR. Image comparision demonstrates the difference between CR and traditional volume rendering (VR), owing to a more complex lighting model that enhances surface detail and produces realistic shadows to add depth to 3D visualizations. Results: Representative examples of normal cardiac anatomy, a coronary artery stenosis, and an intracardiac malignant neoplasm are presented with 2D multiplanar reconstruction, traditional VR and CR. A potential pitfall in CR utilization, namely the possibility of obscuring important pathology, is demonstrated and discussed. Conclusions: CR is a promising method to enhance display volumetric CT data and should prove useful in diagnosis, treatment planning, surgical navigation, trainee education, and patient engagement. However, further study is needed to establish the advantaged and disadvantages of CR in comparison to other 3D methods.