title: Rapid-prototyped temporal bone and inner-ear models replicated by adjusting computed tomography thresholds.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This study aimed to investigate the validity of adjusting computed tomography thresholds in order to replicate a temporal bone model suitable for dissection training and education.
  
  
  METHODS
  A simulated three-dimensional model of a human temporal bone was prototyped using selective laser sintering. The powder layers were laser-fused, based on detailed computed tomography data, and accumulated to create a three-dimensional structure. The computed tomography threshold value of the stapes was modified on standard triangular language file in order to replicate the stapes. The intensity value was determined to select the fluid lumen of the inner ear and the bone surface, in order to replicate the inner ear.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The model could be shaved, using surgical instruments, in the same manner as during real surgery. The stapes could be reproduced, making this model even more realistic than a previous version. The inner ear was recreated, along with the surrounding bony wall and the ossicles.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This model facilitates dissection training and easy understanding of the relation between the labyrinth and the surrounding structures.
authors: Department of Otolaryngology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan. otosuzu@tokyo-med.ac.jp
authors: M
authors: M
authors: Suzuki
authors: A
authors: A
authors: Hagiwara
authors: Y
authors: Y
authors: Ogawa
authors: H
authors: H
authors: Ono
mesh_terms: D007758:Ear, Inner / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D006801:Humans; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D010036:Otolaryngology / Q000193:education*; D013701:Temporal Bone / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods