Three-dimensional (3D) image data is acquired from a subject with a medical imaging device and stored. The stored 3D image data is processed by a model workstation to segment the model into discrete structures and produce a segmented computer graphic model. An operator interacts with the model workstation to cause it to display desired structures of the the segmented model in a desired view and orientation. The operator also selects a position and orientation of a cutting plane passing through the segmented model. Once selected, the position and orientation information is provided to a pulse sequencer of a magnetic resonance (MR) imaging system. The pulse sequencer controls an RF transmitter and gradient amplifiers to cause an MR image of the subject at an imaging plane, corresponding to the cutting plane of the model workstation, to be acquired. This allows fast, accurate image plane selection, which may be selected by an operator who is simultaneously performing a medical procedure on the subject, aid in the procedure.