The development of a new generation of nonlinear computer scanners (metatron hunter 4025), which make use of multidimensional virtual imaging of the object under investigation, has enabled to substantially enhance the effectiveness of the NLS-method and even expand its field of application, despite the competitiveness from MRT. The distinctive feature of multidimensional NLS imaging is an initially volumetric nature of scanning. The data thus received are an integral array, which facilitates the reconstruction of multidimensional virtual images of anatomical structures of the object under investigation. In this connection the virtual NLS is widely used, especially for angiographic investigations with a three dimensional reconstruction of vascular formations.
Another prospective field of application of the three-dimensional image reconstruction based on the data received by means of multidimensional NLS is the study of hollow organs with “virtual NLS-scopy” involved. This kind of system was developed for its high-speed multidimensional nonlinear scanners, Z series, and was called Hunter. Hugh resolution maintained during spiral scanning and the use of LAPP system (a system parallel processors with super high computational capability and speed of operation) enable to realize in the project the principle of “virtual NLS-scopy” at Voxel Z multimodal DICOM- compatible work station which is the principal system of imaging and subsequent data processing with Medintech scanners.
NLS images are made ready for visual analysis by means of 4-d Tissue original company developed method that makes it possible not only to obtain virtual multidimensional icons of anatomical structures but also to single out a specific biological tissue of interest-an extra dimension-and in addition make an imaged bones, soft tissue and vessels at a time.
The specific characteristic of the representation of virtual data by the Hunter system is simultaneous of surfaces of cavatus and extramural formations located outside the lumen of the cavity under examination (lymph nodes, vessels). The images that are received form a natural sequence of virtual NLS pictures. So some special navigation programs automatically define the path of motion of the “virtual scanner” by the center of the cavity under examination. The path of motion can be chosen by the operator by means of some other adjustments, which enable to specify the NLS picture in detail by changing of views. A raised representation of the cavity surface is also possible with some deliberate areas of shade involved. The produced sequences of NLS pictures can be easily transformed into a standard VHS video format by means of the epi-Clien program and thus be used in common video systems, specifically in teleradiology.
The Hunter system is in the first place designed to reveal patients having obstructive processes in the upper respiratory passages, bulky esophageal, gastric or colonic formations, atherosclerotic lesions o large vessels, and disorders affecting paranasal sinuses, bladder, or spinal canal. The data gathered through “virtual NLS-scopy” enable to pick out in good time the optimum spot for biopsy and find out the extent of the required surgical intervention.
This technique can be used both independently and as a useful linking element between tomographic, endoscopic and NLS investigations.