Patent ID: 8270693
Filing Date: 2012-09-18
Classification: G06T

Abstract:
1. A method for deploying a device in a tortuous vessel, comprising: creating, by a processor, a virtual representation of the tortuous vessel; placing, by the processor, a virtual generalized-cylinder within the virtual representation of the tortuous vessel, wherein the virtual generalized-cylinder is placed within the virtual representation of the tortuous vessel by the processor (i) calculating the centerline of the virtual representation of the tortuous vessel, and (ii) generating the virtual generalized-cylinder by defining an extent along the centerline of the virtual representation of the tortuous vessel and constructing the virtual generalized-cylinder about the centerline; measuring, by the processor, length along the perimeter of the virtual generalized-cylinder at a pre-determined number of longitudes, wherein the longitudes extend parallel to the centerline, and further wherein measuring length along the perimeter of the virtual device at a pre-determined number of longitudes comprises marching down the centerline of the virtual generalized-cylinder, incrementally adding to an array of longitudinal length counters as progressing along the centerline; determining, by the processor, the maximum measured length; selecting, by a physician, a device based upon the maximum measured length; and deploying, by the physician, the device in the tortuous vessel.