Reconstruction of the Three-dimensional Model of Cervical Vertebrae Segments Based on CT Image and 3D Printing

Objective Reconstruct the three-dimensional model of cervical vertebrae segments based on CT image and print it with 3D techniques to provide the clinical diagnosis with clear and specific models of pathological changes and conduct simulated surgery to improve operation's effect. Methods We imported the sequential geological data of human cervical vertebrae which is based on CT image into MIMICS software to achieve the segmentation picture of C4~C7 segments of cervical vertebrae. Then, after constructing the tentative 3D model, we put the data into GEOMAGIC Studio to get the digital model for 3D printing. Results By using the two reverse engineer software MIMICS and GEOMGIC Studio, we got the clear, accurate and specific 3D model of the C4~C7 segments of cervical vertebrae with complex and irregular anatomic structure. Thus, this will provide a powerful reference for the research on the case of lesion. Conclusion The complete and clear 3D models of the cervical vertebrae we achieved could provide a new tool for research on the case of lesion and cervical spine bio-mechanics.