Three-Dimensional Imaging of the Ankle Joint from Computerized Tomography

A computer system was developed to rapidly reconstruct three-dimensional (3D) images of bone from computerized tomography scans of the ankle joint. Solid models of the bones were produced from the 3D image data through the use of a computer numerically controlled milling machine. A cadaver ankle joint was scanned, and models of the distal tibia and fibula and dome of the talus were made and compared to the actual bone specimens. The measurements of the models were within 3 mm or less of the bones in all three planes (average, 1.2 mm or 5.5%). These 3D images and models of bone should allow better visualization of joint pathology and a system for preoperative planning on exact bone models to optimize the results of surgery.