Three dimensional imaging of bone from analysis of computed tomography data.

A computer system was developed to reconstruct three dimensional images of bone from analysis of computed tomography data. Images of bone can be made within minutes and rotated for viewing from any direction. An editing process allows visualization of the articular surfaces of any joint. Solid models of the bone images can be produced with an accuracy of 1 mm to 3 mm by interfacing the image data with a computer numerically controlled milling machine. This technology will provide better information to the surgeon for preoperative diagnosis and planning and for the design of customized implants.