3D Cinematic Rendering and Its Applications in Neuroimaging: Studio Magic Meets Anatomy and Pathology

Cinematic rendering, an advanced volume-rendering technique, is an innovative postprocessing tool for CT that is based on the animation industry. Through its complex image projection algorithms that provide a realistic shadowing effect and numerous postprocessing tools, cinematic rendering can create 3-dimensional models that mimic real life. Cinematic rendering has numerous applications in addition to its utility as a possible diagnostic problem-solving tool. We provide a brief overview of the technique of cinematic rendering; review its applications for neuroimaging in medical education, patient communication, and surgical planning; and discuss its benefits and limitations.

Learning Objective: To understand the basics of the cinematic rendering technique, its nondiagnostic applications, and its benefits and limitations.