Research topics in this context are, among others, robot-assisted guidance and surgery [1 7], automated documentation [8 10] or registration of the optically acquired images or videos to image data obtained from preprocedure X-ray, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and other medical image acquisition techniques [11 15].
Remarkable advances in imaging technology over the recent years have resulted in notable improvement of imaging acquisition and postprocessing techniques in FDCT.
In the Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Rectal Cancer European Equivalence Study MERCURYY), imaging workshops were held for participating radiologists to ensure standardisation of image acquisition techniques and interpretation of the images [14].
The resulting shorter echo times (e.g., cf. typical TE3 T = 42 ms vs. TE7 T = 23 ms) require faster image acquisition techniques, in particular the use of parallel imaging methods (e.g., GRAPPA, SENSE), and optimization of shimming procedures [4].
11– 13 Mapping with TC is logistically complicated because of the coordination required between injection in a controlled environment, imaging acquisition and surgery, making this technique more time-consuming and expensive.
The dye injection technique does affect the outcome of imaging acquisition, leaving the intravenous injection of any labeling agent as the preferable method [ 21].
Since both systems were equipped with multiple receiver channels and multi-element surface coils, use of parallel imaging techniques (integrated parallel acquisition techniques, iPAT, Siemens Medical Solutions, Erlangen, Germany) was possible with both scanner types.
Sequential multispectral imaging is an acquisition technique that involves collecting images of a target at different wavelengths, to compile a spectrum for each pixel.
CAT is not a single specific measurement sequence, but rather a sequence design concept whereby distinct acquisition techniques with varying imaging parameters are employed in rapid succession in order to cover k-space.
Advantages of the OCT setup include the utilization of a fiber-optic bundle amenable to endoscope in situ imaging, a fast parallelized acquisition technique for in vivo imaging, and a common-path interferometer arrangement with no scanning components resulting in a simpler opto-mechanical design.
