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Three‐dimensional cranial surface reconstructions using high‐resolution computed tomography
Author(s) -
Vannier Michael W.,
Conroy Glenn C.,
Marsh Jeffrey L.,
Knapp Robert H.
Publication year - 1985
Publication title -
american journal of physical anthropology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.146
H-Index - 119
eISSN - 1096-8644
pISSN - 0002-9483
DOI - 10.1002/ajpa.1330670402
Subject(s) - skull , visualization , tomography , osteology , craniofacial , computed tomography , scanner , atlas (anatomy) , anatomy , computer science , computer vision , artificial intelligence , biology , radiology , medicine , genetics
Until recently, there has been no satisfactory way for anthropologists to visualize intracranial morphology in more than two dimensions without actually “invading” the skull in some manner. Images provided by conventional x‐ray and computed tomography (CT) scans are often abstract, flat, two‐dimensional representations that fail to reveal three‐dimensional relationships. We describe new computer‐imaging techniques that reconstruct three‐dimensional images from sequential series of narrowly collimated (1–2 mm), high‐resolution CT scans of the skull. These computed images represent three‐dimensional surface data and can be viewed from any direction. Depth information is encoded in gray scale. In addition, selected portions of the anatomy can be “removed,” i.e., made transparent, to allow visualization of previously hidden intracranial morphology. Since the geometric data obtained with the CT scanner are precise, parameters such as linear distances, angles, areas, and volumes can be accurately (and instantaneously) generated. The power and versatility of these computer‐imaging techniques are demonstrated by examining (1) living subjects with major craniofacial dysmorphology (Treacher‐Collins syndrome and unilateral coronal synostosis); (2) an anthropoid osteological specimen ( Gorilla ); and (3) a fossil mammal skull.