Advanced algorithms in medical computer graphics

Advanced algorithms and efficient visualization techniques are of major importance in intra-operative imaging and image-guided surgery. The surgical environment is characterized by a high information flow and fast decisions, requiring efficient and intuitive presentation of complex medical data and precision in the visualization results. Regions or organs that are classified as risk structures are in this context of particular interest. This paper summarizes advanced algorithms for medical visualization with special focus on risk structures such as tumors, vascular systems and white matter fiber tracts. algorithms and techniques employed in intra-operative situations or virtual and mixed reality simulations are discussed. Finally, the prototyping and software development process of medical visualization algorithms is addressed.