Angle-preserving mappings for the visualization of multi-branched vessels

We employ a conformal mapping technique to flatten tubular structures with multi-branches for visualization of MRA and CT volumetric vessel imagery. This may be used for the study of possible vessel pathology or virtual colonoscopy for polyp detection. The method is based on a discrete Laplace-Beltrami operator to flatten a tubular surface onto a planar polygonal region in an angle-preserving manner. A thinned pruned medial surface (or skeleton) is used for the vessel partition.