A CT database for research, development and education: concept and potential

Abstract

Both in radiology and in surgery, numerous applications are emerging that enable 3D visualization of data from various imaging modalities. In clinical practice, the patient's images are analyzed on work stations in the Radiology Department. For specific preclinical and educational applications, however, data from single patients are insufficient. Instead, similar scans from a number of individuals within a collective must be compiled. The definition of standardized acquisition procedures and archiving formats are prerequisite for subsequent analysis of multiple data sets. Focusing on bone morphology, we describe our concept of a computer database of 3D human bone models obtained from computed tomography (CT) scans. We further discuss and illustrate deployment areas ranging from prosthesis design, over virtual operation simulation up to 3D anatomy atlases. The database of 3D bone models described in this work, created and maintained by the AO Development Institute, may be accessible to research institutes on request.

Fig 1

Conversion process of DICOM CT slices. In a simple triangulated surface model, consistent surfaces can be mathematically described by nonuniform rational B-splines (NURBs). Finally, a solid model serves biomechanical studies better than mere surface representations.

Fig 2

Examples of scans from the CT database: Full-length CT scans of tibia, fibula, radius, and ulna converted to solid models. In the semitransparent view, the medullary cavity is visible.

Fig 3

Simulation of osteosynthesis using full-length digital bone models. To date, traditional practical training still relies on plastic bone prototypes.

Fig 4

Example of 2D to 3D registration. The fracture as seen on the 2D x-rays has been transposed onto the 3D bone model using a semiautomatic procedure.