ABSTRACT
Objective To explore the accuracy and practical significance of the 3-dimensional (3D) reconstruction of the liver and the abdominal blood vessels based on the data of 64-slice spiral computerized tomography (64S-SCT). Methods The 2D images of the liver and the abdominal blood vessels were collected after TLC-scanning with 64S-SCT. The 3D images of the liver, hepatic internal duct system and the abdominal blood vessels were reconstructed by the medical image processing system. The volume of the 3D reconstructed liver was compared with that of the actual liver measured by the 64S-SCT, and the portal vein of the reconstructed liver model was compared with that reconstructed by the Mxview workstation based on the 64S-SCT data. Results The 3D models of the liver, hepatic internal duct system and abdominal blood vessels were vivid, and could be revolved and observed at any direction. The spatial relationship among main intrahepatic ducts was clearly displayed. The actual liver volume and the condition of the intrahepatic ducts were accurately demonstrated. The reconstructed liver, the branches of the hepatic artery and portal vein, and the abdominal blood vessels were simultaneously displayed by adjusting the transparency of the liver model. The portal vein of the reconstructed liver model completely matched that reconstructed by the Mxview workstation based on the 64S-SCT data. Conclusions The 3D models of the liver, hepatic internal duct system and abdominal blood vessels reflect the human anatomy structure, and provide reliable virtual organs and vessel system for virtual liver surgery.