A vascular catheterization simulator for training and treatment planning.

We have developed a working prototype of an augmented reality based vascular catheterization simulator. The simulator is called daVinci, and provides the interventional radiologists with a "hands on, user friendly, image based environment to augment training, enhance pretreatment planning and design interventional products and devices. daVinci is based on computational modeling of human anatomical images and provides the user with capabilities for realtime simulated navigation of catheters in both 2-D and 3-D modeled vessels. In addition, multiplaner CT, MRI and anatomical data sets are incorporated into the simulator to enhance the understanding of anatomical relationships associated with vascular catheterization procedures. The current prototype is designed for peripheral vascular applications. Additional systems are currently being considered for both interventional neuroradiology and cardiology.