3D-Reconstructions: New Application Fields in Modern Veterinary Anatomy

• Published in: Anatomia, histologia, embryologia Vol. 34; no. s1; p. 38
• Main Authors: Nöller, C., Henninger, W., Grönemeyer, D., Budras, K. -D.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Berlin, Germany Blackwell Verlag GmbH 01.12.2005
• ISSN: 0340-2096; 1439-0264
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0264.2005.00669_86.x

Introduction:  Today, the claims on the anatomical education have changed with the considerable increase of modern medical imaging. For the analysis of computed tomography (CT) images, magnetic resonance (MR) images or ultrasound, the knowledge of cross sectional anatomy is an important prerequisite for proper diagnosis. Admittedly, it is difficult for students and also for practitioners to imagine three‐dimensional objects in space. The possibilities and convenience of 3D‐reconstructions were demonstrated by generating virtual casts of frontal sinuses. Methods:  Using a HiSpeed (DX/i Plus, General Electric) scanner transversal CT images of Persian and European Shorthair cats were acquired. The slice thickness and distance were set to 1 mm. With the software system VG Studio MAX 1.1, the obtained volumetric data was used to create volume graphics displaying object surfaces and interiors based on voxel data. Because of density value acquisition, it was possible to identify and label the objects of interest. The extension of the paranasal sinuses was analyzed and demonstrated in relation to the skull. For verification, conventional corrosion casting employing Technovit or Tensolcement, respectively, were carried out on the same specimens. Results:  The frontal sinuses of both feline breeds showed great variations in size, shape and symmetry. With models from the skull based on 3D‐datasets including the virtual casts of the paranasal sinuses, it was easy to imagine spatial relations and localizations inside the head. The advantages of the virtually derived casting method are: creating the virtual casts in vivo; the method does not imply any health risks and is repeatedly applicable. Conclusion:  3D‐reconstructions based on CT‐datasets are excellently suited for generating spatial sense. Additionally, a single scan series can be applied for different anatomical problems. The resulting digital 3D‐objects are readily available and can be employed for educational purposes for better comprehension of the difficult spatial relations of the head.