Open osteology: Medical imaging databases as skeletal collections

Abstract

• Medical imaging datasets can be used as skeletal reference collections • Computed tomography data from TCIA can be accessed via 3D Slicer • Many tools in 3D Slicer support skeletal analyses and dissemination products • 3D bone models can be used for education, research, training, web-based reference • Bone modeling in 3D Slicer will support common workflows and shareable datasets The increasing availability of de-identified medical image databases, especially of computed tomography (CT) scans, presents an opportunity for “open osteology,” or the establishment of new skeletal reference collections. The number of free and/or open-source software packages for generating three-dimensional (3D) CT models, such as 3D Slicer, reduces financial obstacles to working with CT data and encourages the development of common workflows and datasets. The direct link to the Cancer Imaging Archive from 3D Slicer facilitates access to medical imaging datasets to support education and research with virtual skeletal data. Generation of 3D models enables computational methods for skeletal analyses and can also lead to the generation of virtual libraries representing large amounts of human skeletal variation. 3D printing of 3D CT models can supplement physical skeletal collections for the classroom and research beyond the standard commercially available specimens. Web-based technologies support 3D model and CT volume visualization, interaction, and measurement, increasing opportunities for dissemination and collaboration as well as the possible integration of 3D data as references for skeletal analysis tools. Increasing awareness and usage of pre-existing free and open-source resources applicable to forensic anthropology will facilitate method/workflow development, validation, and eventually standardization. This presentation will discuss online sources of skeletal data, outline methods for processing CT scans with free software into 3D digital models and discuss web-based technologies and repositories that allow interaction with 3D skeletal models. The demonstration of these methods will contribute to discussions on the expansion of virtual anthropology and open osteology.