3DPATHOLOGY

Project results

To achieve this, 5 major technical challenges had to be tackled:

• The 3D acquisition of data using multiple imaging modalities
• The acquired data of some modalities had to be reconstructed and aligned from actual 2D images of pathologic slices into 3D images
• The aligned 3D data from different modalities had to be analysed to improve the quality of diagnosis
• The project developed new 3D visualisation and interaction technologies (equipment and algorithms) optimised for multi-modal 3D pathology
• An IT backbone was created to deal with data of tremendous size

The resulting 3D multi-modal pathology demonstrator provides complete chemical information and access to unexplored dimensions of histology. The 3D visualisation of, and interaction with, the relevant data from multiple imaging modalities optimises the presentationof the relevant views and parameters and allows the huge amounts of data to be handled.

Exploitation

First of all, the 3DPathology project has had a significant impact on JPEG XS standardisation, which focuses on near loss-free, low-latency coding of high-resolution data. Intensive collaboration between imec, ETRO and VUB resulted in the launch of a new extension of JPEG 2000.
Furthermore, Philips expects the results to help bring new pathology scanners to market and an innovative multi-layer bright field imaging solution to increase its market share of the bright field pathology. Increased usability range and robustness will address the needs for both small labs and large medical centres. As a result of the project, Prodrive Technologies finalised the scan engine design and the production tools, which are now available. This emerging technology project will result in better patient care and significantly higher revenue. Slimmer AI, formerly Target Holding, applied the experience in image handling and analysis from 3D molecular image alignment in different customer cases and proofs of concept (PoC). Currently, the AI-based image analysis line is combined with Slimmer AI's Natural Language Processing developments to form the PoC-version of an innovative data-room tool, in co-creation with a launching customer. Barco has developed optimised display systems that address a variety of pathology lab needs for review, positioning of samples but also for diagnostic purposes. In addition, Barco prepared a White Paper for the Medical Imaging Working Group of ICC which is a first step towards the standardisation of medical colour imaging. In addition, PS-Tech has developed masking technology for extractions within volumetric datasets. This technology, which has now been commercialised in Vesalius3D, is used for preoperative planning in various cardiovascular procedures. For the Korean partner Xavis, the project will result in bringing to market new 3D X-ray Microscopy Instrumentation capable of high-resolution, non-destructive imaging and analysis for the quantification of internal structural parameters at submicron to nanometre scale. And last but not least, increasing the accuracy in pathological examination practice and interpretation has a significant impact on improving quality of life due to personalised treatment, limiting re-occurrence as a result of better treatment outcomes and a reduction in the cost of healthcare from fewer readmissions.