[A digital model for lumbar motion segment reconstruction and three-dimensional visualization].
OBJECTIVE
To establish a digital model for reconstruction and three-dimensional visualization of lumbar motion segment from CT images.


METHODS
Based on 64 row spiral CT continuous 2-dimensional images of L4-L5 segments, the lumbar structure and various soft tissues were reconstructed with the Mimics software, followed by validation of this model using finite element analysis software.


RESULTS
The established three-dimensional digital model of lumbar motion segment included two vertebral bodies, cortical bone, cancellous bone, endplate, annulus fibrosus, nucleus pulposus and 6 types of ligaments. The output result of the digital model can be used to for research of computer aided design, rapid rototyping and finite element analysis.


CONCLUSIONS
The application of thin-layer CT and Dicom standard ensures more accurate digital model establishment, and Mimics software allows more convenient reconstruction of the human skeleton and various soft tissues to facilitate further research.
Fu
Dong
D
Department of Orthopedics, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China. gdfudong@126.com
Jin
An-min
AM
Min
Shao-xiong
SX
Luo
Yi
Y
Zhang
Yu
Y
D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D017076:Computer-Aided Design; D020342:Finite Element Analysis; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000379:methods*; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000502:physiology; D008297:Male; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D009068:Movement; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed