This article proposes a set-up for a 3-dimensional ultrasound system using visual probe localization on the conventional 2-dimensional ultrasound machines readily available in most hospitals. A calibrated digital camera is used for probe-tracking (localization) purposes, whereas ultrasound probe calibration is implemented using a purpose-built phantom. The calibration steps and results are detailed here. The overall system is proven effective in clinical trials through scanning of human organs. Results obtained show successful, accurate 3-dimensional representations using this simple cost-effective set-up.
The 3D ultrasound systems produce much better reproductions than 2D ultrasound, but their prohibitively high cost deprives many less affluent organization this benefit. This paper proposes using the conventional 2D ultrasound equipment readily available in most hospitals, along with a single conventional digital camera, to construct 3D ultrasound images. The proposed system applies computer vision to extract position information of the ultrasound probe while the scanning takes place. The probe, calibrated in order to calculate the offset of the ultrasound scan from the position of the marker attached to it, is used to scan a number of geometrical objects. Using the proposed system, the 3D volumes of the objects were successfully reconstructed. The system was tested in clinical situations where human body parts were scanned. The results presented, and confirmed by medical staff, are very encouraging for cost-effective implementation of computer-aided 3D ultrasound using a simple setup with 2D ultrasound equipment and a conventional digital camera.