Computer generation of two-dimensional pseudocolor images of Monte Carlo input/output data

Graphic display of radiation dose distribution is one of the most effective means of communicating the influence of radiographic technique on the risk of diagnostic x-ray exposure. Isodose contours have been used extensively for this purpose. However, a major problem has been the simultaneous display of these isocontours superimposed on patient anatomy, which is required to demonstrate doses to specific organs. A method has been developed to display patient anatomy in pseudocolor, using the continuous temperature-color scale, sometimes called the heated-object spectrum. Isodose contours, also in color, are superimposed on the anatomic display. The method provides improved visualization of the anatomic distribution of radiation dose, especially when compared to previous methods of dose isocontours super imposed on anatomy which was also displayed as isocontours. The results suggest that future refinements of the method, such as improved techniques of data filtering and the application of the science of color perception, may lead to further improvements in the display.