Surgical anatomy of the male pelvis: a 3D model based on the Visible Human Project®

Abstract

Surgical anatomy of the pelvis remains a complex and often controversial topic. Operating in the pelvis can be difficult due to poor visualization, limited maneuverability, and ill‐defined surgical anatomy. However, proper identification and preservation of pelvic autonomic nerves in surgery is associated with decreased morbidity including reduced urinary and sexual dysfunction.The objective of this study was to construct an accurate 3D computer model of the surgical anatomy of the male pelvis, with particular focus on fascias and the autonomic nervous system.The model was created by meticulous segmentation of the Visible Human Project® male data set and enhanced with findings obtained from cadaveric dissections and pelvic operations. Specific attention was paid to identification of fascial planes and the course of autonomic nerves. The model was rendered in the 3D visualization software packages, Mimics v. 12, OsiriX v. 3, and 3ds Max 9. It was then compared to cadaveric dissections and operative findings for accuracy.We conclude that it is possible to minimize autonomic morbidity in the pelvis by proper identification of fascial planes and have constructed an enhanced 3D model of the male pelvis based on the Visible Human Project®. This model serves to improve anatomic understanding for surgeons and provides the most detailed 3D rendering of an actual human pelvis for further study.Grant Funding SourceNone