Construction of Neuroanatomical Volumetric Models Using 3-Dimensional Scanning Techniques: Technical Note and...

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical Education
• 3D Imaging

Background:

• Visuospatial neuroanatomy is challenging to learn.
• Traditional 2D anatomical representations are supplemented by 3D modalities.
• Photogrammetry (PGM) and structured light scanning (SLS) are innovative 3D techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the application of SLS and PGM for creating neuroanatomical volumetric models (VMs).
• To enhance medical education and operative planning in neurosurgery using 3D models.

Main Methods:

• Described the workflow for SLS and PGM to create VMs of neuroanatomical dissections.
• Provided step-by-step procedures for image postprocessing and refinement.
• Applied both methods to 3 dissected hemispheres to demonstrate VM quality.

Main Results:

• Both SLS and PGM produced VMs with excellent clarity and structural integrity.
• The generated VMs are suitable for anatomical education, surgical illustration, and procedural simulation.

Conclusions:

• 3D computer graphics, specifically SLS and PGM, show significant promise for neurosurgical applications.
• SLS and PGM facilitate the creation of accurate, high-quality VMs for various 3D platforms.
• Neurosgeons can quickly master these techniques for education and surgical planning; SLS is preferred for high accuracy, while PGM is a viable alternative with a shorter learning curve.