Abstract
Computerized reconstruction of anatomical structures is becoming very useful for developing anatomical teaching modules and animations. The first computer-aided 3D reconstruction was achieved in 1965 by Glaser and Van der Loos. With the improvements in computer hardware and software tools, computerized modeling of anatomical structures has become very useful for visualizing complex 3D forms. Three-dimensional visualization of various microanatomic structures using special preparation and staining methods is important. Although databases exist consisting of serial sections derived from frozen cadaver material, plastination represents an alternate method for developing anatomical data useful for computerized reconstruction. Plastination is used as an excellent tool for studying different anatomical and clinical questions. The sheet plastination technique is unique because it offers the possibility to produce transparent slices series, which can easily be processed morphometrically. A female pelvis was obtained, plastinated, sectioned and subject to 3D computerized reconstruction using WinSURF modeling system (SURFdriver Software). Qualitative observations revealed that the morphological features of the model were consistent with those displayed by typical cadaveric specimens. Morphometric analysis indicated that the model did not significantly differ from a sample of cadaveric specimens. This data supports the use of plastinates for generating tissues sections useful for 3D computerized modeling. Keywords: plastination, 3D reconstruction, anatomy, female pelvis, urinary bladder, uterus