ABSTRACT
Objective: Bladder cancer is the ninth cause of cancer deaths and has high recurrence rate after resection of the tumors. Cystoscopy is the current most accurate method for investigating the bladder abnormalities. However, it is expensive, uncomfortable and invasive. It is possible to induce bleeding, urinary-tract infection and even puncture of bladder. Advances in medical imaging and computer technologies make virtual cystoscopy a potential alternative. Methods: Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MR/) are the preferred imaging modalities for virtual cystoseopy to get clear structural images or (and) functional images of the bladder. The boundary of bladder is segmented manually or automatically, and then the bladder is reconstructed and displayed by surface rendering. Useful features are extracted from the images and expressed o nthe reconstructed bladder to provide more valuable diagnosis information for doctors. Results: Comparing with conventional cystuscopy, virtual cystuscopy is noninvasive, more convenient, flexible and can provide more useful diagnosis information as well. Conclusions: Virtual cystoscopy is a promising method of detection and reexamination of bladder cancer. So far, more researches are needed for the virtual cystoscopy before clinical application. It clinical and commercial value are under investigation.