Objective To explore the histochemical staining for distinguishing and local izing nerve fibers and fascicles at histological level in three-dimensional reconstruction of peri pheral nerves. Methods The right median nerve was harvested from one fresh cadaver and embedded in OCT compound. The sample was serially horizontally sl iced with 6 μm thickness. All sections were stained with Karnovsky-Roots method (group A, n=30) firstly and then stained with toluidine blue (group B, =28) and Ponceau 2R (group C, n=21) in proper sequence. The results of each step were taken photos (× 100). After successfully stitching, the two-dimensional panorama images were compared, including texture feature, the number and aver gray level of area showing acetylchol inesterase (AchE) activity, and result of auto microscopic medical image segmentation. Results In groups A, B, and C, the number of AchE-positive area was (21.63 ± 4.06)× 102, (20.64 ± 3.51)× 102, and (20.54 ± 5.71)× 102, respectively, showing no significant difference among 3 groups (F=0.64, P=0.54); the mean gray level was (1.41 ± 0.06)× 102, (1.10 ± 0.05)× 102, and (1.14 ± 0.07)× 102, respectively, showing significant differences between group A and groups B and C (P lt; 0.001). In the image of group A, only AchE-positive area was stained; in the image of group B, myelin sheath was obscure; and in the image of group C, axons and myelin sheath could be indentified, the character of nerve fibers could be distinguished clearly and accurately, and the image segmentation of fascicles could be achieved easier than other 2 images. Conclusion The image of Karnovsky-Roots-toluidine blue-Ponceau 2R staining has no effect on the AchE-positive area in the image of Karnovsky-Roots staining and shows better texture feature. This improved histochemical process may provide ideal image for the three-dimensional reconstruction of peri pheral nerves.
Objective To study the feasibility of virtual intercondylar notchplasty by applying MRI two-dimensional (2D) images to reconstruct three-dimensional (3D) images and measure the size of intercondylar notch. Methods Thirty healthy volunteers who had no knee joint disease and surgery history were selected. There were 15 females and 15 males with an age range of 20-30 years, weight range of 45-74 kg, and height range of 150-185 cm. They were divided into male group and female group, and the knees of each group were divided into 2 subgroups (the left group and right group). MRI scan of the left and right knees was performed, and the 2D images of MRI were imported into Mimics10.01 medical image control system for 3D reconstruction. The related anatomical data as follows were measured from the 3D digital model and analyzed by statistical software: notch width (NW), condylar width (CW), and notch width index (NWI). Then the 3D knee images of patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury were collected between January and March 2010, and 4 patients with narrow intercondylar notch (NWI≤0.2) were selected for reconstructing the 3D model of the knee and simulating the intercondylar notch plasty. Then, the volume of osteotomy in 3D model was calculated and applied in the ACL reconstruction surgery, and whether the graft had impingement with intercondylar notch or not was evaluated. Results There were significant differences in NW and CW between male group and female group (P≤lt;≤0.05), but no significant difference was found in the NWI (P≤gt;≤0.05). And there was no significant difference in NW, CW, and NWI between the left and right knees both in male group and female group (P≤gt;≤0.05). After ACL reconstruction and intercondylar notchplasty, the shape of intercondylar notch became normal (NWI≤gt;≤0.22), no impingement occurred between the graft and intercondylar notch under arthroscopy within 3-month follow-up. Conclusion The shape of intercondylar notch of 3D model based on MRI 2D images is similar to the real intercondylar notch. NWI is one of important indexes which can reflect the narrow level of intercondylar notch. The virtual intercondylar notchplasty may provide preoperative plan and guidence for ACL reconstruction operation to avoid the impingement between graft and intercondylar notch after surgery.
ObjectiveTo explore the value and role of post-processing techniques such as 3D reconstruction in the online education mode in neurosurgery undergraduate clinical probation teaching.MethodsA retrospective analysis method was used to collect 120 clinical 5-year medical students who were trained in neurosurgery at West China Hospital of Sichuan University from January 2019 to May 2020, including 40 students receiving traditional imaging materials offline (control group 1), 40 students being taught on image post-processing technology offline (control group 2), and 40 students being taught on-line image post-processing technology during the novel coronavirus epidemic (observational group). The students’ scores of departmental rotation examination and feedback survey results on teaching satisfaction were collected, and multiple comparison was conducted between the observational group and the two control groups respectively.ResultIn the control group 1, the control group 2, and the observational group, the theoretical test scores were 36.80±3.22, 38.17±2.61, and 38.97±2.79, respectively; the case analysis scores were 37.05±2.01, 38.40±2.62, and 39.25±2.88, respectively; the total scores were 73.85±5.06, 76.57±4.29, and 78.10±4.53, respectively; the scores of interest in teaching were 84.47±3.71, 86.05±2.87, and 86.82±2.60, respectively; the scores of mastery of knowledge were 82.85±4.39, 84.90±2.72, and 85.78±2.36, respectively; and the scores of overall satisfaction with teaching were 84.17±3.45, 85.97±2.64, and 86.37±2.59, respectively. The differences among the three groups were all statistically significant (P<0.05). The observational group differed significantly from the control group 1 in all the above scores (P<0.05), while did not differed from the control group 2 in any of the above scores (P>0.05).ConclusionsIn neurosurgery internship activities, the online application of image post-processing techniques such as 3D reconstruction will help students establish 3D spatial concepts, better understand the brain anatomy, and improve students’ academic performance and acceptance.
ObjectiveTo evaluate the safety and application value of three-dimensional reconstruction for localization of pulmonary nodules in thoracoscopic lung wedge resection.MethodsThe clinical data of 96 patients undergoing thoracoscopic lung wedge resection in our hospital from January 2019 to August 2020 were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed, including 30 males and 66 females with an average age of 57.62±12.13 years. The patients were divided into two groups, including a three-dimensional reconstruction guided group (n=45) and a CT guided Hook-wire group (n=51). The perioperative data of the two groups were compared.ResultsAll operations were performed successfully. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in the failure rate of localization (4.44% vs. 5.88%, P=0.633), operation time [15 (12, 19) min vs. 15 (13, 17) min, P=0.956], blood loss [16 (10, 20) mL vs. 15 (10, 19) mL, P=0.348], chest tube placement time [2 (2, 2) d vs. 2 (2, 2) d, P=0.841], resection margin width [2 (2, 2) cm vs. 2 (2, 2) cm, P=0.272] or TNM stage (P=0.158). The complications of CT guided Hook-wire group included pneumothorax in 2 patients, hemothorax in 2 patients and dislodgement in 4 patients. There was no complication related to puncture localization in the three-dimensional reconstruction guided group.ConclusionBased on three-dimensional reconstruction, the pulmonary nodule is accurately located. The complication rate is low, and it has good clinical application value.
【Abstract】ObjectiveTo evaluate the value of MR imaging with a contrast-enhanced multi-phasic isotropic volumetric interpolated breath-hold examination (VIBE) in diagnosis of primary liver carcinoma. MethodsThirty-two consecutive patients with surgical-pathologically confirmed 42 foci of primary carcinoma of liver underwent comprehensive MR examination of the upper abdomen, routine two-dimensional (2D) T1WI and T2WI images were acquired before administration of Gd-DTPA for contrast enhancement. Then, contrast-enhanced multi-phasic VIBE was acquired followed by 2D T1WI images. The lesion appearances on hepatic arterial, portal venous and equilibrium phases of VIBE sequence were carefully observed along with delineation of hepatic arterial and portal venous structures. The lesion detection rates and lesion characterization ability were compared among various MR sequences. Results33(78.6%), 30(71.4%), 38(90.5%) and 42(100%) foci were displayed respectively on T2WI, non-enhanced T1WI, enhanced T1WI and enhanced 3D-VIBE images (P＜0.05). The hepatic arterial anatomy of 30 patients （93.8%） and the portal venous structure of 31 patients （96.9%） were clearly depicted on enhanced 3D-VIBE images. Using MIP and MPR reconstruction techniques, the feeding arteries of 14 foci and draining vein of 12 foci were clearly displayed.ConclusionHigh-quality 3D-VIBE images are not only better than 2D images in lesion detection and characterization for primary liver carcinoma, but also able to provide much more information about hepatic vascular anatomy.
ObjectiveTo further understand the anatomical characteristics and rules of left upper lingual pulmonary artery.MethodsCT data of 120 patients (82 males, 38 females, median age of 65 years ranging 36-78 years) with pulmonary nodules from December 2018 to August 2020 in our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. The anatomic characteristics of the lingual segment of the upper left lung were analyzed by three-dimensional reconstruction. ResultsMediastinal lingual artery appeared in 34 of the 120 patients, accounting for 28.4%. There were 26 patientsof mixed mediastinal/interlobar type, 8 patients of pure mediastinal lingual artery, and 92.3% (24/26) mixed mediastinal/interlobar type blood vessel contained A4b. Fifty-eight (58/120, 48.3%) patients had interlobar type A4+5 type, the rest were two-branches type. And 22 patients of A4 and A5 type accounted for the most two-branches type (22/28, 78.6%). The single-branch type was located at the distal end of A6 in 54 (54/58, 93.1%) patients, originated from the proximal end of A6 in 4 patients, and originated from the basilar artery in 6 patients. The two-branches type was at the distal end of A6 accounting for 50.0% (14/28).ConclusionMediastinal lingual artery is more common than expected, accounting for 28.4%, among which mixed lingual artery is more prevalent, usually located in the first pulmonary trunk, and mostly follows the principle of proximity to supply relevant lung tissues. The location of the interlobar branches in the pulmonary trunk can be at the distal or proximal end of A6, care should be taken to avoid damaging adjacent structures.
Objective To study digitize design of custom-made radial head prosthesis and to verify its matching precision by the surgery of preoperative three-dimensional (3-D) virtual replacement. Methods Six healthy adult volunteers (3 males and 3 females, aged 25-55 years with an average of 33 years) received slice scan of bilateral elbow by Speed Light 16-slice spiral CT. The CT Dicom data were imported into Mimics 10.0 software individually for 3-D reconstruction image, and the left proximal radial 3-D image was extracted, the mirror of the image was generated and it was split into 2 pieces: the head and the neck. The internal diameter and the length of the radial neck were obtained by Mimics 10.0 software measurement tools. In Geomagic Studio 12 software, the radial head was simulated to cover the cartilage surface (1 mm thickness) and generated to an entity. In UG NX 8.0 software, the stem of prosthesis was designed according to the parameters above and assembled head entity. Each custom-made prosthesis was performed and verified its matching precision by the surgery of preoperative 3-D virtual replacement. Results Comparing the morphology of 6 digitize custom-made prostheses with ipsilateral radial heads by the 3-D virtual surgery, the error was less than 1 mm. The radial head prosthesis design on basis of the contralateral anatomy was verified excellent matching. Conclusion The 3-D virtual surgery test and the digitized custom-made radial head prosthesis will be available for clinical accurate replacement.
Objective To investigate the feasibility of establishing the visualization models of intraneural microvessels of sciatic nerves in Sprague Dawley (SD) rats by systemic infusion of Evan’s blue (EB) or lead oxide and to compare the advantages and disadvantages. Methods Fifteen healthy adult SD rats of either gender, weighing 200-250 g, were randomly divided into traditional group (group A, n=5), fluorescence group (group B, n=5), and radiography group (group C, n=5). Ink, EB, and lead oxide, all mixed with gelatin solution, were injected in groups A, B, and C, respectively. After 2 hours of cryopreservation under 4°C, all sciatic nerves were harvested and observed through stereomicroscope to make sure the filling condition. The two-dimentional (2D) images were then collected via reflexion fluorescent microscope in group B and via micro-CT scan in group C. All images were imported into computer to establish three-dimentional (3D) reconstruction models by Mimics 15.0. Results All groups could show the outline of intraneural microvessels of sciatic nerves under stereomicroscope. Diameters of them were measured under fluorescent microscope, ranging from 10 μm to 30 μm. Both groups B and C could establish 3D reconstruction models from 2D images. These models could clearly reproduce the structure of microvessels. Conclusion Both EB and lead oxide can be used to establish 3D reconstruction models to observe structure of the intraneural vessels. However, EB has some disadvantages, such as predisposition to infiltration, grainy 2D images and time-consuming procedure; it is not suitable for researches of large specimen. Though 2D pictures from lead oxide have lower resolution than EB, it is easier to be manipulated and appropriate for experiments of large specimen.
ObjectiveTo evaluate the application value of three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction in preoperative surgical diagnosis of new classification criteria for lung adenocarcinoma, which is helpful to develop a deep learning model of artificial intelligence in the auxiliary diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer.MethodsThe clinical data of 173 patients with ground-glass lung nodules with a diameter of ≤2 cm, who were admitted from October 2018 to June 2020 in our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 55 were males and 118 were females with a median age of 61 (28-82) years. Pulmonary nodules in different parts of the same patient were treated as independent events, and a total of 181 subjects were included. According to the new classification criteria of pathological types, they were divided into pre-invasive lesions (atypical adenomatous hyperplasia and and adenocarcinoma in situ), minimally invasive adenocarcinoma and invasive adenocarcinoma. The relationship between 3D reconstruction parameters and different pathological subtypes of lung adenocarcinoma, and their diagnostic values were analyzed by multiplanar reconstruction and volume reconstruction techniques.ResultsIn different pathological types of lung adenocarcinoma, the diameter of lung nodules (P<0.001), average CT value (P<0.001), consolidation/tumor ratio (CTR, P<0.001), type of nodules (P<0.001), nodular morphology (P<0.001), pleural indenlation sign (P<0.001), air bronchogram sign (P=0.010), vascular access inside the nodule (P=0.005), TNM staging (P<0.001) were significantly different, while nodule growth sites were not (P=0.054). At the same time, it was also found that with the increased invasiveness of different pathological subtypes of lung adenocarcinoma, the proportion of dominant signs of each group gradually increased. Meanwhile, nodule diameter and the average CT value or CTR were independent risk factors for malignant degree of lung adenocarcinoma.ConclusionImaging signs of lung adenocarcinoma in 3D reconstruction, including nodule diameter, the average CT value, CTR, shape, type, vascular access conditions, air bronchogram sign, pleural indenlation sign, play an important role in the diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma subtype and can provide guidance for personalized therapy to patients in clinics.
Objective To investigate the cl inical directive significance of three-dimensional reconstruction of CT in treating mandibular angle hypertrophy. Methods Between March 2009 and January 2011, 18 patients with mandibular angle hypertrophy were treated using the three-dimensional reconstruction technology of CT. All patients were female, aged20-36 years with an average of 25 years. Eighteen patients included: 14 single mandibular angle hypertrophy, 3 mandibular angle hypertrophy with masseter hypertrophy, and 1 mandibular angle hypertrophy with bilateral asymmetry; 6 cases of ptosis of mandibular angle, 9 cases of prominent mandibular angle, and 3 cases of introversive mandibular angle. According to the types of mandibular angle hypertrophy, the surgical methods could be correctly chosen. The procedure was planned and simulated; the osteotomy l ine was marked and the osteotomy was measured on the workstations of three-dimensional reconstruction. Results No fracture of mandible occurred in the operation. Facial nerve temporary attack occurred in 1 case and recovered at 3 months after operation. All patients were followed up 6-12 months (mean, 7.6 months). After 6 months of operation, the effectiveness was satisfactory in 15 cases, basically satisfactory in 2 cases, and unsatisfactory in 1 case (bilateral asymmetry). Conclusion Based on three-dimensional reconstruction technology of CT, surgical design performed on the model will promote the accuracy of operation. Basically symmetrical appearances can be achieved with satisfactory results.