3D Brain Imaging in Vascular Segmentation of Cerebral Venous Sinuses

Abstract

The three-dimensional (3D) visualization of dural venous sinuses (DVS) networks is desired by surgical trainers to create a clear mental picture of the neuroanatomical orientation of the complex cerebral anatomy. Our purpose is to document those identified during routine 3D venography created through 3D models using two-dimensional axial images for teaching and learning neuroanatomy. Anatomical data were segmented and extracted from imaging of the DVS of healthy people. The digital data of the extracted anatomical surfaces was then edited and smoothed, resulting in a set of digital 3D models of the superior sagittal, inferior sagittal, transverse, and sigmoid, rectus sinuses, and internal jugular veins. A combination of 3D printing technology and casting processes led to the creation of realistic neuroanatomical models that include high-fidelity reproductions of the neuroanatomical features of DVS. The life-size DVS training models were provided good detail and representation of the spatial distances. Geometrical details between the neighboring of DVS could be easily manipulated and explored from different angles. A graspable, patient-specific, 3D-printed model of DVS geometry could provide an improved understanding of the complex brain anatomy. These models have various benefits such as the ability to adjust properties, to convert two-dimension images of the patient into three-dimension images, to have different color options, and to be economical. Neuroanatomy experts can model such as the reliability and validity of the designed models, enhance patient satisfaction with improved clinical examination, and demonstrate clinical interventions by simulation; thus, they teach neuroanatomy training with effective teaching styles.

Systematic review of three-dimensional printing for simulation training of interventional radiology trainees

“…Although numerous articles reported a decreased cost of their 3D printed simulations [ 53 , 54 , 56 ], only two of the articles (anesthesia and cardiology) directly compared their 3D simulation to commercially available models [ 62 , 65 ]. Pederson et al noted a $110 3D printed bronchoscopic simulator compared to a commercial model priced greater than $2590 [ 62 ].…”

“…The majority of the test populations in the excluded articles, 17 out of the 19 articles, consisted of higher-level medical professionals including residents and attendings [ 32 , 46 , 47 , 53 , 55 , 57 – 68 ]. This contrasts with the 4 included articles where 2 out of the 4 studies used medical students as their test subjects [ 70 , 72 ].…”

Multicolor 3D Printing of Complex Intracranial Tumors in Neurosurgery

“…Due to the complexity and rarity of this tumor entity, preoperative surgical simulation in a 3D printed skull model might help to better visualize and understand the anatomy and to assist the surgeon achieve complete resection. As shown by others 10,11 3D printing of patient-specific models improves both residents' and experienced neurosurgeons' understanding of complex neuroanatomy.…”

Direct drainage of the basal vein of Rosenthal into the superior petrosal sinus: a literature review

“…MIP and MPR delineate small structures with better definition than the aforementioned techniques. Thus, volume information is more precise than with 3D CT angiography [ 12 ]. All individual radiological techniques are limited in the assessments of BVR morphology they provide, but this can be mitigated when the techniques are combined.…”