10 Advancement in the realism of this technology will also lead to more robust simulation models. 1,3 More recent developments in 3D computerized models have been used to assist with the visuo-spatial challenges of temporal lobectomy, 4 cerebral aneurysm clipping, 5,6 transpetrous surgical approach model, 7 temporal bone dissection, 8,9 and posterior fossa surgical planning. Cranial digital surgical simulation was first initiated in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s. 1,2 This endeavour introduced 3D modelling as a novel means of referencing anatomical data.ĭigital modelling technology is particularly useful for the field of neurosurgery given the intricate 3D anatomy within the cranial contents and spine. The Visible Human Project was an endeavour by the National Library of Medicine to create a complete 3D representation of a male and female human body for the purpose of education. Therefore, there is a need for models that can assist with 3D mental reconstruction of neuroanatomical principles for understanding both normal and pathological cerebral structures.Ĭomputer graphics and 3D digital designs have an established presence in the neurosurgical literature, particularly within the past decade, to augment education.

Based on these resources, surgeons have to reconstruct the anatomy in the three-dimensional (3D) space to appreciate the full anatomical relationships.

Prior efforts to educate surgical trainees on the intricacies of neuroanatomy have involved meticulous dissection of cadaveric specimens and a review of two-dimensional (2D) representations of anatomical dissections and illustrations.

Maintaining a working mental representation of this environment to augment one’s capabilities during operative intervention can be particularly cumbersome. An understanding of skull anatomy is important for neurosurgical efficienty. The advent of virtual reality and advances in computer graphics technology has enabled the development of simulated experiences and illustrative representations of intricate anatomical relationships.

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