Development of a semi-automated technique for reconstructing vertebral anatomy using clinical MRI

Three dimensional (3D) reconstructions of the spinal vertebrae have been utilised to create computational models for assessing spinal biomechanics and to permit clinicians to interrogate a virtual representation of the spinal anatomy for patients with complicated or unusual bone pathologies/deformities. These reconstructions have primarily been developed using computed tomography (CT) scanning. However, the radiation exposure associated with the use of CT scans to assess anatomical features, particularly in young patients, precludes the routine use of this imaging modality in research. An accurate, semi-automatic technique was developed to segment and reconstruct lumbar vertebral anatomy using MRI data. This technique resulted in reconstructed vertebral anatomy with clearly defined vertebral bodies as well as posterior elements, something hereto not achieved in prior studies