[Three-dimensional reconstruction and anatomic variation of the portal vein based on 64-slice spiral CT data].

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the three-dimensional reconstruction methods of the portal vein using 64-slice spiral CT data and the anatomical variation of the portal vein. METHODS: Three-dimensional reconstruction of the portal vein was performed using Mimics software based on the 64-slice spiral CT data of 64 cases. Each model of the portal vein and its branches was evaluated according to the presentation rate, depiction quality and anatomic variation. RESULTS: The reconstructed model showed a depiction rates of 100% for the 4-grade branches of the portal vein. The stem of the portal vein and the left and right branches of the level III or above were all displayed, but in 2 cases the superior mesenteric vein and in 1 case the spleen vein was displayed only to the level IV. Of the 64 cases, 50 (78.1%) had normal portal vein and 14 (21.9%) showed anatomical variations. CONCLUSION: The 3D model vividly mimics the anatomic variations of the portal vein to provide valuable information for surgical plans.