Application of two segmentation protocols during the processing of virtual images in rapid prototyping: ex vivo study with human dry mandibles.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of virtual three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions of human dry mandibles, produced from two segmentation protocols ("outline only" and "all-boundary lines").


METHODS
Twenty virtual three-dimensional (3D) images were built from computed tomography exam (CT) of 10 dry mandibles, in which linear measurements between anatomical landmarks were obtained and compared to an error probability of 5 %.


RESULTS
The results showed no statistically significant difference among the dry mandibles and the virtual 3D reconstructions produced from segmentation protocols tested (p = 0,24).


CONCLUSIONS
During the designing of a virtual 3D reconstruction, both "outline only" and "all-boundary lines" segmentation protocols can be used.


CONCLUSIONS
Virtual processing of CT images is the most complex stage during the manufacture of the biomodel. Establishing a better protocol during this phase allows the construction of a biomodel with characteristics that are closer to the original anatomical structures. This is essential to ensure a correct preoperative planning and a suitable treatment.
School of Dentistry, Federal University of Bahia, Avenida Araújo Pinho, n. 62 Canela, 41110-150, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, ed_ferraz@yahoo.com.br.
Eduardo Gomes
EG
Ferraz
Lucio Costa Safira
LC
Andrade
Aline Rode
AR
dos Santos
Vinicius Rabelo
VR
Torregrossa
Izabel Regina Fischer
IR
Rubira-Bullen
Viviane Almeida
VA
Sarmento
D006801:Humans; D008334:Mandible / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed