We describe the use of compact support radial basis functions (CSRBFs) for simulation of soft tissue deformation. CSRBFs allow surface and volumetric deformations to be computed in near real time. In comparison to other spline functions, CSRBFs effect local deformations. In addition, CSRBF matrices are guaranteed to be positive definite and invertible. Visual realism can be achieved by utilizing different CSRBFs with deformation behaviour approximating specific soft tissue characteristics, and by a locality parameter. Computations can also be performed in parallel for increased efficiency. The efficacy of this deformation model is demonstrated on data from a 3D prostate image for the application of needle insertion for implanting radioactive seeds for brachytherapy.
Mark P. Wachowiak, Xiaogang Wang, Aaron Fenster, T