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Exploring CT pixel and voxel size effect on anatomic modeling in mandibular reconstruction
Maariyah Ahmed1,2, Myra Garzanich1,2, Luigi E Melaragno1,2
1Center for Design and Manufacturing Excellence, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
3D Printing in Medicine
|June 26, 2024
Summary
Slice thickness significantly impacts the accuracy of 3D mandibular models derived from computed tomography (CT) scans, more so than pixel size. CT scans with slice thickness up to 3.00 mm may be adequate for creating patient-specific models.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Biomedical Engineering
- Anatomical Modeling
Background:
- Patient-specific anatomical models are created using computed tomography (CT) imaging and 3D printing for surgical guidance.
- Existing CT imaging guidelines may not ensure optimal image quality for creating accurate patient-specific models.
- This study investigates the impact of CT image parameters on the accuracy of 3D mandibular models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine how computed tomography (CT) image pixel size (X-Y) and slice thickness (Z) affect the accuracy of patient-specific mandibular models.
- To provide objective data for establishing CT imaging guidelines for 3D model creation.
Main Methods:
- Six cadaver heads underwent CT scanning with varied slice thicknesses and pixel sizes.
- Computer-aided design (CAD) models of the mandible were generated from CT scans and compared to surface scans of dissected cadaveric mandibles (gold standard).
- Accuracy was evaluated using root mean square (RMS) deviation and the percentage of points deviating >2.00 mm, analyzed with two-way ANOVA and Tukey-Kramer post-hoc tests.
Main Results:
- Slice thickness significantly impacted RMS values, while pixel size did not show a significant overall difference.
- Post-hoc analysis revealed significant differences in RMS between 0.32 mm and 1.32 mm pixel sizes.
- Smaller RMS values were observed for slice thicknesses of 0.67 mm, 1.25 mm, and 3.00 mm compared to 5.00 mm, with no significant differences among the former three.
Conclusions:
- Slice thickness is a more critical factor than pixel size in determining the accuracy of 3D mandibular models.
- CT scans with slice thicknesses up to 3.00 mm can yield adequate 3D models for facial bony anatomy, contingent on clinical needs.
- The findings support the development of rigorous guidelines for slice thickness and recommend the use of isotropic voxels in CT imaging for anatomical modeling.
