The Use of Three-Dimensional Computer Display in the Study of Disk Disease

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Abstract
A software system for 3-dimensional dynamic display of organs from computed tomograms (CT) was developed. Clinical usefulness of this software system was evaluated on the spine in general, and disk disease in particular. The choice of application was largely chosen because surgical planning can be improved if 3-dimensional displays of the diseased disc and its surroundings are available. Patients referred for CT evaluation were examined in the routine manner. In those cases in which the ordinary CT scans indicated potential usefulness, the software system was applied, and movies were produced showing the appearance of appropriate parts of the spine as if they were rotating in front of the user. Apparently the size and relative location of disc herniations are well represented by such displays. Proof of efficacy in surgical planning awaits a more thorough evaluation, but apparently the method has great promise.

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