Construction of a three-dimensional skull model using spiral computer tomography data / 中国组织工程研究

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: A three-dimensional spiral computer tomography can display stereoscopic pictures with multi angles on films or computer screens. However, it is hard to display complex three-dimensional anatomical morphology on two-dimensional films or computer screens. Thus, three-dimensional models are needed in craniomaxillofacial surgery simulation or conceptual design.OBJECTIVE: To establish a three-dimensional skull model using spiral computer tomography data and to explore its application in craniofacial surgery.METHODS: Skull of the patient was scanned with Picker 6000 spiral computer tomography with 2.0 slice thickness and 1.0 pitch,and the obtained data were treated in Voxel Q image workstation for three-dimensional reconstruction with volume rendering technique. After having been downloaded to personal computer at 0.1 mm interval, the transaxial two-dimensional image data were converted into two-dimensional digitized contour data by using image processing software developed by the experimental team. The wire frame and solid images of craniofacial triangular facets could be reconstructed when the digitized data were inputted into image processing software of Surfacer 9.0.RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The three-dimensional wire frame and solid image of skull was reconstructed and computer aided design for plastic operation was accomplished on it. Then the simulacrum of underlay was obtained by rapid prototyping technology. A three-dimensional skull model could be established using spiral computer tomography data. It might play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of tumors, injuries and abnormality in craniofacial surgery.