Three-dimensional reconstruction of the human body.

Advanced computer graphic techniques potentially can be applied to radiology, with the goal of increasing diagnostic accuracy and improving the management of patients [1-3]. Over the past 2 years, we have applied the volumetric rendering technique, a sophisticated visualization reconstruction algorithm [4, 5], to the formation and display of three-dimensional (3D) images. The images are of high quality and can be displayed as an animated video loop or as a static image. We have previously shown these studies to have a direct impact on the management of patients with acetabular fractures [5]. To demonstrate the potential of this technique, we scanned a human cadaver. The resultant image (Fig. 1) shows half the body with the muscle opaque and the bone transparent, and half the body with the bone opaque and the muscle transparent.

[1]  D Magid,et al.  Acetabular fractures: optimal imaging. , 1987, Radiology.

[2]  W L Robb Future advances and directions in imaging research. , 1988, AJR. American journal of roentgenology.