PURPOSE: Image information obtained with different methods should be exactly transferable to profit fully from the single advantage the different imaging method has in localisation and for further treatment planning. Prominent anatomical points serve as reference structures (landmarks) for the transference of imaging information and details of situation. Aim of this study is the improvement of reproductability by comparing topographic relations, measurements and positioning in different imaging-procedures with supporting marking aids/surface markers. MATERIAL AND METHODS: By using pharmacological capsules and plastic tubes filled with oily contrast medium containing iodine (Lipiodol; Byk Gulden), marking aids were developed which can be seen in similar definite limits within the framework of MRI-, CT- and conventional X-ray-Imaging. RESULTS: A method to view these new, artificial markers in combination with individual, anatomical landmarks is introduced. The marking aid/surface marker, fixed on anatomical reference structures on the skin, does not result in an additional burden for the patient. CONCLUSIONS: The new, artificial markers are also useful for making other structures recognizable, such as anatomical relation lines, center of the portal and edges in planning imaging for radiotherapy treatments and are used as leading and reference structures to compare localisation and extent of lesions in X-ray-, CT- and MRI. Marking aids/surface markers do not have to be changed in different imaging methods.
PURPOSE: Image information obtained with different methods should be exactly transferable to profit fully from the single advantage the different imaging method has in localisation and for further treatment planning. Prominent anatomical points serve as reference structures (landmarks) for the transference of imaging information and details of situation. Aim of this study is the improvement of reproductability by comparing topographic relations, measurements and positioning in different imaging-procedures with supporting marking aids/surface markers. MATERIAL AND METHODS: By using pharmacological capsules and plastic tubes filled with oily contrast medium containing iodine (Lipiodol; Byk Gulden), marking aids were developed which can be seen in similar definite limits within the framework of MRI-, CT- and conventional X-ray-Imaging. RESULTS: A method to view these new, artificial markers in combination with individual, anatomical landmarks is introduced. The marking aid/surface marker, fixed on anatomical reference structures on the skin, does not result in an additional burden for the patient. CONCLUSIONS: The new, artificial markers are also useful for making other structures recognizable, such as anatomical relation lines, center of the portal and edges in planning imaging for radiotherapy treatments and are used as leading and reference structures to compare localisation and extent of lesions in X-ray-, CT- and MRI. Marking aids/surface markers do not have to be changed in different imaging methods.