title: Constructing three-dimensional detachable and composable computer models of the head and neck.
abstract: The head and neck region has a complex spatial and topological structure, three-dimensional (3D) computer model of the region can be used in anatomical education, radiotherapy planning and surgical training. However, most of the current models only consist of a few parts of the head and neck, and the 3D models are not detachable and composable. In this study, a high-resolution 3D detachable and composable model of the head and neck was constructed based on computed tomography (CT) serial images. First, fine CT serial images of the head and neck were obtained. Then, a color lookup table was created for 58 structures, which was used to create anatomical atlases of the head and neck. Then, surface and volume rendering methods were used to reconstruct 3D models of the head and neck. Smoothing and polygon reduction steps were added to improve 3D rendering effects. 3D computer models of the head and neck, including the sinus, pharynx, vasculature, nervous system, endocrine system and glands, muscles, bones and skin, were reconstructed. The models consisted of 58 anatomical detachable and composable structures and each structure can be displayed individually or together with other structures.
authors.affiliation: Department of Education and Law, Hunan Women's University, Changsha, 410004, People's Republic of China.
authors.forename: Min
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Fan
authors.forename: Peishan
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Dai
authors.forename: Buhong
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Zheng
authors.forename: Xinchun
authors.initials: X
authors.lastname: Li
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D003198:Computer Simulation; D006257:Head / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D008297:Male; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D009333:Neck / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D011859:Radiography