A Novel Method to Register Post-Implant Magnetic Resonance Imaging to Pre-Plan Ultrasound Images to Evaluate Needle Passage through Neurovascular Bundles during Permanent Prostate Implant

Abstract

Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) is the most common image modality used in permanent prostate brachytherapy (PPI). Although providing excellent prostate visualization, TRUS images are inferior to MRI images for identifying critical structures such as neurovascular bundles (NVB). To preserve erectile function after PPI, the traumatic injury resulting from needles passing through NVB is worth investigating. Our goals were to develop a novel method to register post-implant MRI to pre-plan ultrasound (US) images and demonstrate its usage on evaluating needle passages to NVB.