The Batch Artifact Scanning Protocol: A New Method Using Computed Tomography (CT) to Rapidly Create Three-Dimensional Models of Objects from Large Collections En Masse

Science and Public Engagement in National Parks: Examples and Advice from Young Scientists

The introduction of three-dimensional (3D) printed anatomical models has garnered interest in pre-operative planning, especially in orthopedic and trauma surgery. Identifying potential error sources and quantifying their effect on the model dimensional accuracy are crucial for the applicability and reliability of such models. In this study, twenty radii were extracted from anatomic forearm specimens and subjected to osteotomy to simulate a defined fracture of the distal radius (Colles’ fracture). Various factors, including two different computed tomography (CT) technologies (energy-integrating detector (EID) and photon-counting detector (PCD)), four different CT scanners, two scan protocols (i.e., routine and high dosage), two different scan orientations, as well as two segmentation algorithms were considered to determine their effect on 3D model accuracy. Ground truth was established using 3D reconstructions of surface scans of the physical specimens. Results indicated that all investigated variables significantly impacted the 3D model accuracy (p < 0.001). However, the mean absolute deviation fell within the range of 0.03 ± 0.20 to 0.32 ± 0.23 mm, well below the 0.5 mm threshold necessary for pre-operative planning. Intra- and inter-operator variability demonstrated fair to excellent agreement for 3D model accuracy, with an intra-class correlation (ICC) of 0.43 to 0.92. This systematic investigation displayed dimensional deviations in the magnitude of sub-voxel imaging resolution for all variables. Major pitfalls included missed or overestimated bone regions during the segmentation process, necessitating additional manual editing of 3D models. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that 3D bone fracture models can be obtained with clinical routine scanners and scan protocols, utilizing a simple global segmentation threshold, thereby providing an accurate and reliable tool for pre-operative planning.

In patients with advanced lower rectal cancer, the complex pelvic anatomy renders lateral pelvic lymph node dissection to be challenging. Therefore, we evaluated the utility of printing a three-dimensional (3D) pelvic model for lateral pelvic lymph node dissection. We included 22 patients who underwent lateral pelvic lymph node dissection for rectal cancer between June 2017 and February 2019. Using CT scans, 3D pelvic images and models were constructed and printed, respectively. Thirty colorectal surgeons subjectively evaluated the utility of 3D pelvic models based on a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire (1 = strongly disagree, 5 = strongly agree). The average Likert score for the question "Would a 3D model be useful for understanding pelvic anatomy?" was 4.68. Cases with clinically diagnosed metastatic lymph nodes (4.79 ± 0.44) scored higher than those without them (4.38 ± 0.77, p = 0.02). For spatial comprehension of pelvic anatomy, 3D models scored higher (4.83) than 3D images (4.36, p < 0.001). The ease of use of 3D models and images was scored 4.60 and 4.20, respectively (p = 0.015). With experience, the 3D image reconstruction time decreased from 900 to 150min. The 3D pelvic models may be helpful for experienced surgeons to understand the pelvic anatomy in lateral pelvic lymph node dissection.

Volumetric anatomical and functional identification in neuronavigation

Introduction to Special issue

The purpose of this study was to assess the role of three-dimensional (3D) and axial imaging by spiral computed tomography (CT) in the evaluation of advanced gastric carcinoma (AGC). Sixty patients with AGC underwent 3D and axial imaging by spiral CT. Among them, 40 cases were confirmed by surgery. The remaining 20 cases showed typical findings of AGC with upper gastrointestinal series and gastroscopy that were proved by endoscopic biopsy. Spiral CT was performed with 3-mm collimation, 4. 5-mm/s table feed, and 1.5-mm reconstruction interval in the supine position after ingestion of gas. Three-dimensional images using the shaded surface display (SSD) technique were analyzed and graded (excellent, good, or poor). A second dual-phase spiral CT scan was performed with 5-mm collimation, 7-mm/s table feed, and 5-mm reconstruction interval in the prone position after ingestion of water. Among 60 cases of AGC, there were two cases (3.4%) of Borrmann type 1, 12 cases (20.0%) of Borrmann type 2, 32 cases (53.3%) of Borrmann type 3, 11 cases (18.3%) of Borrmann type 4, and three cases (5.0%) of Borrmann type 5. Of the 60 cases of AGC, excellent 3D images were obtained in nine patients (15.0%), good 3D images in 39 (65.0%), and poor 3D images in 12 (20.0%). Among the 12 patients with poor images, cancers were located at the pyloric antrum in eight cases (66.7%), were AGC Borrmann type 4 in three cases (25.0%), and early gastric carcinoma (EGC)-mimicking lesion (AGC Borrmann type 5) in one case (8.3%). Cancers involving the antrum tended to show poor images (p < 0.05). Using axial images, Borrmann's classification based on tumor morphology was accurately identified in 41 cases (68.3%); however, using 3D imaging, 52 cases (86.7%) were accurately classified (p < 0.05). In 40 cases receiving surgery, good correlation between axial CT image and pathology occurred in 70.0% of T class and 72.5% of N class. Three-dimensional images of AGC by spiral CT data were good or excellent in 80%, and combining 3D images with axial CT imaging improved the accuracy in classifying Borrmann type and tumor staging.

Practical Strategies to Reduce Pediatric CT Radiation Dose

Three-dimensional (3D) imaging instead of two-dimensional (2D) computed tomography (CT) for diagnosis and preoperative planning in infants and young children with complex liver tumors is a promising technique for precision hepatectomy. This study was a retrospective analysis of 26 infants and young children with giant liver tumors involving the hepatic hilum who underwent precise hepatectomy at the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University between February 2012 and January 2015. All patients received upper abdominal contrast-enhanced CT scanning before surgery. 16 patients used Hisense CAS system for 3D reconstruction as the reconstruction group. While ten patients underwent 3D CT reconstruction by the CT Workstation as the control group. The clinical outcomes were analyzed and compared between the two groups. The 3D reconstruction of abdominal organs and blood vessels was generated using the Hisense CAS system. Diagnosis and preoperative planning assisted by the system was used for preoperative and intraoperative decision-making for precise hepatectomy. All patients underwent successful surgery. The 3D models clearly demonstrated the association of liver tumors with the intrahepatic vascular system and provided a preoperative assessment of resectability, assisting surgeons in preoperative procedural planning. Anatomic hepatectomy was successfully completed in the reconstruction group. The mean operation time was shorter in the reconstruction group (137.81 ± 17.51 min) than in the control group (192 ± 34.66 min) (P < 0.01). The mean intraoperative blood loss was lesser in the reconstruction group (21.81 ± 14.05 ml) than in the control group (53.50 ± 21.35 ml) (P < 0.01). The difference was statistically significant. 2D CT scan images cannot accurately display the spatial relationship between the tumor and surrounding vasculature. The 3D reconstruction model used in this study gave detailed and accurate anatomical information and allowed for the assessment of tumor resectability and provided a detailed road map for preoperative decision-making and predicted the postoperative liver function. 3D visualization technology provides preoperative assessment and allows individualized surgical planning. Surgical controllability, accuracy, and safety can be improved in infants and young children undergoing precise hepatectomy for complex liver tumors.

Three-dimensional printing - Assisted planning for complete and safe resection of retroperitoneal tumor.

Echocardiography is a key assessment tool for the evaluation of cardiac structure and function. The ability to image cardiac structures using 3-dimensional (3D) echocardiography is evolving. In this article, we present some of the key features of the emerging 3D technology and review its applications with an emphasis on real-time 3D transesophageal echocardiography.

2D versus 3D imaging of hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy

Reconciling the Conservation of Cultural Heritage with Rural Development

Introduction &amp; BackgroundShopping Trolley Secrets was an interactive public engagement space that took place at We The Curious Science Centre (WTC) aimed at fostering meaningful conversations and gathering feedback on shopping data use for health research. There are a number of ways the space facilitated this communication, including a postcard writing station (written feedback), interactive polls (iPad survey and string board survey), interactive shopping experience activities and in-person discussions (meet the researcher events). Objectives &amp; ApproachThis paper aims to provide a case study for public engagement in digital footprint data research. The paper outlines the processes undertaken in the design and implementation of the project as well as reflections from staff at both University of Bristol Digital Footprints Lab and WTC on impacts this initiative has had on their approach to public engagement in research going forward. Relevance to Digital FootprintsThis paper is relevant to Digital Footprints as public engagement has been identified as a key aspect in increasing social acceptability in the use of digital footprint data for research. Innovative approaches to public engagement are important to share with the digital footprint community so learnings can be applied to future work in this area. ResultsThis paper outlines barriers and facilitators encountered by the research team at University of Bristol and staff at WTC. The process of conceptualising and undertaking the events are outlined in detail along with reflections on the process from staff from both organisations. The impacts of the public engagement activities on our work are also laid out including funding opportunities and a shopping data visualisation tool. Conclusions &amp; ImplicationsThis paper has implications for future research in the digital footprints space, it highlights the benefits of innovative public engagement in digital footprints research to both research staff, corporate partners and for public good.

BackgroundProximal humerus fractures (PHF) are frequent, however, several studies show low inter-rater agreement in the diagnosis and treatment of these injuries. Differences are usually related to the experience of the evaluators and/or the diagnostic methods used. This study was designed to investigate the hypothesis that shoulder surgeons and diagnostic imaging specialists using 3D printing models and shoulder CT scans in assessing proximal humerus fractures.MethodsWe obtained 75 tomographic exams of PHF to print three-dimensional models. After, two shoulder surgeons and two specialists in musculoskeletal imaging diagnostics analyzed CT scans and 3D models according to the Neer and AO/OTA group classification and suggested a treatment recommendation for each fracture based on the two diagnostic methods.ResultsThe classification agreement for PHF using 3D printing models among the 4 specialists was moderate (global k = 0.470 and 0.544, respectively for AO/OTA and Neer classification) and higher than the CT classification agreement (global k = 0.436 and 0.464, respectively for AO/OTA and Neer). The inter-rater agreement between the two shoulder surgeons were substantial. For the AO/OTA classification, the inter-rater agreement using 3D printing models was higher (k = 0.700) than observed for CT (k = 0.631). For Neer classification, inter-rater agreement with 3D models was similarly higher (k = 0.784) than CT images (k = 0.620). On the other hand, the inter-rater agreement between the two specialists in diagnostic imaging was moderate. In the AO/OTA classification, the agreement using CT was higher (k = 0.532) than using 3D printing models (k = 0.443), while for Neer classification, the agreement was similar for both 3D models (k = 0.478) and CT images (k = 0.421). Finally, the inter-rater agreement in the treatment of PHF by the 2 surgeons was higher for both classifications using 3D printing models (AO/OTA—k = 0.818 for 3D models and k = 0.537 for CT images). For Neer classification, we saw k = 0.727 for 3D printing models and k = 0.651 for CT images.ConclusionThe insights from this diagnostic pilot study imply that for shoulder surgeons, 3D printing models improved the diagnostic agreement, especially the treatment indication for PHF compared to CT for both AO/OTA and Neer classifications On the other hand, for specialists in diagnostic imaging, the use of 3D printing models was similar to CT scans for diagnostic agreement using both classifications.Trial registrationBrazil Platform under no. CAAE 12273519.7.0000.5505.

Objectives:Artefacts from dental implants in three-dimensional (3D) imaging may lead to incorrect representation of anatomical dimensions and impede virtual planning in navigated implantology. The aim of this study was quantitative assessment of artefacts in 3D STL models from cone beam CT (CBCT) and multislice CT (MSCT) using different scanning protocols and titanium-zirconium (Ti-Zr) and zirconium (ZrO2) implant materials.Methods:Three ZrO2 and three Ti-Zr implants were respectively placed in the mandibles of two fresh human specimens. Before (baseline) and after implant placement, 3D digital imaging scans were performed (10 repetitions per timepoint: voxel size 0.2 mm³ and 0.3 mm³ for CBCT; 80 and 140 kV in MSCT). DICOM data were converted into 3D STL models and evaluated in computer-aided design software. After precise merging of the baseline and post-op models, the surface deviation was calculated, representing the extent of artefacts in the 3D models.Results:Compared with baseline, ZrO2 emitted 36.5–37.3% (±0.6–0.8) artefacts in the CBCT and 39.2–50.2% (±0.5–1.2) in the MSCT models. Ti-Zr implants produced 4.1–7.1% (±0.3–3.0) artefacts in CBCT and 5.4–15.7% (±0.5–1.3) in MSCT. Significantly more artefacts were found in the MSCT vs CBCT models for both implant materials (p < 0.05). Significantly fewer artefacts were visible in the 3D models from scans with higher kilovolts in MSCT and smaller voxel size in CBCT.Conclusions:Among the four applied protocols, the lowest artefact proportion of ZrO2 and Ti-Zr implants in STL models was observed with CBCT and the 0.3 mm³ voxel size.