[Serial thin cross-sectional anatomy and computerized three-dimensional reconstruction of metacarpal fascial spaces of hand].
OBJECTIVE
To build three-dimensional (3-D) visible model for surgical treatment of infection of fascial spaces of hand.


METHODS
Serial thin cross-sections (0.2 mm) of hand were made by cryomicrotome, and the thin cross-sections of metacarpal parts were observed. A personal computer was employed to reconstruct 3-D model of metacarpal fascial space.


RESULTS
The shapes, locations and adjacent relations of the mid-palmar space, thenar space and metacarpal bones were displayed clearly from computerized 3-D model, which could be the cross-reference of the cross-sections expediently.


CONCLUSIONS
The computerized 3-D reconstruction of metacarpal fascial spaces can provide some guidance for surgical treatment of infection and other diseases of metacarpal fascial spaces.
Bai
Gui-you
GY
Central Laboratory, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.
Zhang
Zheng-zhi
ZZ
Ke
Jin-xing
JX
Ke
Jun
J
Sun
Wei
W
Pan
Feng
F
Cheng
Chang-zhi
CZ
D019412:Anatomy, Cross-Sectional; D006225:Hand / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional