Enhancing human-computer interaction in medical segmentation

Medical image acquisition devices are becoming increasingly multidimensional, and predictions assume 5000 images per patient study within the next decade. Therefore, new paradigms for computerized medical image analysis and visualization are of fundamental importance to make possibly full use of the information buried in the enormous flood of image data. The aim of the presented project is the optimal cooperation between computer-based image analysis algorithms and human operators using new closed-loop segmentation systems for improved information flow. This paper describes an enhanced, visuo-haptic interaction tool we have developed for medical segmentation. Evaluation studies with the system, which confirm the value of adding haptic feedback, are also presented.