title: The display of three-dimensional anatomy with stereolithographic models.
abstract: Stereolithography, a new technique of prototype fabrication developed for the aerospace industry, offers a unique way to display patient anatomy. Like current computer aided design (CAD) systems, it uses digital image data from computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) to produce a physical model. Unlike conventional CAD it does not require a cutting tool and, therefore, CAD toolpath limitations do not exist. The stereolithography apparatus uses an ultraviolet laser to selectively polymerize and solidify a polymeric liquid plastic solution under computer control. The device was used to produce a model of cranial bony anatomy from CT image data, providing full internal detail in the constructed model, including encased sinuses, foramen, and potentially complete internal anatomy within a closed skull. The advantages and disadvantages of this technology are reviewed with an emphasis on future development.
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiological Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles.
authors.forename: N J
authors.initials: NJ
authors.lastname: Mankovich
authors.forename: A M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Cheeseman
authors.forename: N G
authors.initials: NG
authors.lastname: Stoker
mesh_terms: D003196:Computer Graphics; D003626:Data Display; D005147:Facial Bones / Q000002:abnormalities*; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D012886:Skull / Q000002:abnormalities*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed