[Establishment of a three-dimensional pancreas model for simulating surgical resection of pancreatic tail carcinoma using virtual-reality technique].
OBJECTIVE
To assess the feasibility of visual-reality technique for simulating surgical resection of pancreatic tail carcinoma using a 3-dimensional pancreas model reconstructed on the basis of the CT data.


METHODS
The original image data of 64-slice spiral CT was obtained from a patient with pancreatic tail carcinoma. Using adaptive region growing algorithm, the serial CT images were segmented and automatically extracted for 3-dimensional reconstruction of the pancreas and the anatomically related structures with a self-designed program. The model was then processed with Freeform Modeling System for image modification and smoothing. With the assistance of GHST SDK and PHANTOM software systems, preoperative simulation of surgical resection of the carcinoma was performed on the basis of the established pancreatic model.


RESULTS
The reconstructed 3-dimensional pancreatic model with the related structures clearly visualized the 3-dimensional structures of the pancreas, the pancreatic tail compromised by the carcinoma, and the adjacent organs, displaying also the distribution, courses and the anatomical relations of the ductal systems including the main pancreatic duct, abdominal aorta, portal vein system, and the biliary tract. During simulated surgery for pancreatic tail carcinoma resection, the GHOST SDK system allowed effective application of the virtual surgical instruments, and the use of PHANTOM software produced a surgical experience with high resemblance of that from an actual operation.


CONCLUSIONS
The serial CT data-based reconstruction of 3-dimensional pancreas model and simulated operation on this model using virtual-reality technique has great potentials for application in individualized surgical planning and surgical risk assessment in cases of pancreatic tail carcinoma, and also facilitates clinical training of the surgeons.
Fang
Chi-Hua
CH
Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China. fangch_dr@126.com
Liu
Yu-Bin
YB
Tang
Yun-Qiang
YQ
Pan
Jia-Hui
JH
Peng
Feng-Ping
FP
Lu
Chao-Min
CM
Bao
Su-Su
SS
D003198:Computer Simulation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000379:methods*; D008875:Middle Aged; D008954:Models, Biological; D010190:Pancreatic Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D036542:Tomography, Spiral Computed; D014584:User-Computer Interface