Three-dimensional imaging and display of musculoskeletal anatomy.

Conventional three-dimensional imaging uses thresholding, or surface rendering technique, which limits accuracy and detail, and hinders soft tissue definition. Volumetric image rendering preserves all CT data, not just surface boundaries, and therefore overcomes these limitations. Three-dimensional images thus generated can be used for muscular and vascular anatomy as well as skeletal structures, with preservation of subtle detail. Representative cases are used to illustrate this technique and its implications for therapy and plastic and reconstructive surgery.