Perspective: three-dimensional imaging of the musculoskeletal system.

An evaluation of musculoskeletal disorders in 202 patients using three-dimensional CT displays has revealed the usefulness of the technique, especially in patients with fractures of skeletal areas with complex anatomy, articular disorders of the hip, and spinal stenosis. In some cases, plastic models of diseased areas have been created from the CT data and are reasonably accurate, providing a graphic representation of the disease and the ability to perform rehearsal surgery. A preliminary investigation of three-dimensional displays of MR images indicates that the technique is feasible, although its clinical practicality requires further analysis.