Three-dimensional reconstruction of the temporal bone from histologic sections.

To increase understanding of the stereoscopic anatomy of the temporal bone, we have developed a computer system for three-dimensional reconstruction of the temporal bone from human histologic sections. The results were satisfactory for reconstructing details of complicated temporal bone structures. This system is equipped with such functions that it is possible to observe the reconstructed structures from an arbitrary direction, and to investigate their internal aspects by cutting and drilling. Three-dimensional reconstruction by this method is useful not only in understanding the fundamental anatomy and stereoscopic relationship of various parts of the temporal bone, but also in simulating temporal bone surgery on reconstructed three-dimensional images.