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Computer-assisted analysis of human upper arm flexion by 4D-visualization based on MRI

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International Journal of Computer Assisted Radiology and Surgery Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose

4D-visualization of the human upper arm based on sequential or dynamic MRI may be useful in functional orthopedic disorders and surgical planning. A cascade of 4D-visualization approaches have been applied including deformation of the soft tissue surfaces and muscular contraction. Skeletal structures and the epifascial tissue comprising vascular structures are included in the 4D-visualization.

Methods

Sequential MRI (T2-weighted spin echo sequences) scans of a healthy volunteer’s upper extremity were obtained. The skeletal, muscular, and epifascial tissues were segmented. For 4D-rendering of the elbow joint, surface models of the humerus, the ulna, and the radius, were displaced with respect to the movement. For 4D-visualization of the soft tissue, the processed MRI data were subjected to highly transparent direct volume rendering with special two-tone transfer functions designed with regard to the application, e.g., muscular inner structure or fasciae. For rendering of time dependent behavior, the visualization was continuously updated.

Results

Continuous deformation of muscular inner structure and fasciae, and dynamics of muscle fibers could be differentiated in 4D-visualizations of the upper extremity. Using sequential MRI scans, this work was constrained by the high sagittal slice thickness and separation.

Conclusion

4D-visualization of the upper extremity based on sequential MRI is feasible and provides a realistic appearance in comparison with anatomical drawings and preparations. The 4D-visualization method may be useful for detecting and monitoring muscular pathologies and lesions.

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Abbreviations

CT:

Computer tomography

MRI:

Magnetic resonance imaging

SE:

Spin echo

TE:

Echo time

TR:

Repetition time

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Life Sciences, Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, Lohbruegger Kirchstr. 65, 21033, Hamburg, Germany

    Cornelia Kober

  2. Dental School, KFS-KAB, University of Zurich, Plattenstr. 11, 8032, Zurich, Switzerland

    Luigi Gallo

  3. University Hospital Basle, Spitalstr. 21, 4031, Basle, Switzerland

    Hans-Florian Zeilhofer

  4. Klinik fuer Mund-, Kiefer- und Plastische Gesichtschirurgie, University of Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596, Frankfurt, Germany

    Robert Alexander Sader

Authors
  1. Cornelia Kober
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  2. Luigi Gallo
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  3. Hans-Florian Zeilhofer
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  4. Robert Alexander Sader
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Cornelia Kober.

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Kober, C., Gallo, L., Zeilhofer, HF. et al. Computer-assisted analysis of human upper arm flexion by 4D-visualization based on MRI. Int J CARS 6, 675–684 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11548-011-0546-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11548-011-0546-8

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