Complex shoulder trauma: three-dimensional CT imaging.

Volumetric three-dimensional imaging is a new technique for CT image processing which generates realistic, three-dimensional models of complex musculoskeletal anatomy from routine transaxial CT data. Volumetric three-dimensional imaging is particularly helpful in evaluating complex shoulder trauma, demonstrating significant advantages over plain film radiography. Multipartite fractures involving the shoulder girdle are displayed in a comprehensive fashion with 3D imaging. With volumetric imaging as implemented on a Pixar Imaging Computer, a 3D model of the injured shoulder can be generated with overlapping structures removed from view, and then rotated about the vertical and horizontal axis for better understanding of abnormal anatomy prior to surgical correction.