RepliExplore: coupling physical and virtual anatomy models

Purpose We present a system which co-registers physical anatomy models with virtual three-dimensional (3D) representations. Interactions performed on the physical model by means of a 3D pointing device are directly reflected on its virtual counterpart. Complex anatomical information integrated into the virtual model thus becomes accessible through the physical interface in a simple and intuitive manner. Methods Using an optical tracking system, we implemented and tested a reference application that includes several tools for the exploration and quantification of anatomical models. We theoretically evaluated the accuracy of the landmark-based registration for different landmark configurations. Results Physicians and computer scientists found the system simple to learn and intuitive to use. By optimizing landmark configurations, the accuracy could be significantly increased, particularly for scenarios in which only selected regions required higher accuracy. Conclusions Physical anatomical models can benefit from the combination with a virtual counterpart in several ways. Applications include anatomical education and the study of patient-individual organ models. Optimizing the registration landmark configuration for specific applications can lower the accuracy requirements for the tracking system.