1. A method for matching and registering medical image data, comprising the steps of: (a) obtaining a first image data set of a tubular structure; (b) obtaining a second image data set of said tubular structure; (c) determining a first path of said tubular structure in said first image; (d) determining a second path of said tubular structure in said second image; (e) determining landmarks in said first path; (f) determining landmarks in said second path; (g) matching said landmarks in said first path with said landmarks in said second path through identifying correspondence between said landmarks of said first path with said landmarks of said second path; and (h) registering said first path to said second path through stretching or shrinking of said first path to said second path until said corresponding landmarks in said first path and said second path coincide along said respective paths.