OBJECTIVETo construct a three-dimensional (3D) model of arteries supplying the extrahepatic bile duct with a new segmentation algorithm based on submillimeter CT data.

METHODSThe new image segmentation algorithm based on interactive volume rendering was integrated into Medical Image Three-Dimensional Visualization System (MI-3DVS) as an intersected plug-in. The abdominal submillimeter CTA data of 10 patients were imported into MI-3DVS and the 3D model of the extrahepatic bile duct and its supplying arteries were constructed. The 3D model was zoomed in, zoomed out and spinned for observation and analysis of the arteries supplying the extrahepatic bile duct.

RESULTSThe 3D models of the blood supply to extrahepatic bile duct allowed stereoscopic, and accurate display of the fourth- and fifth-level branches of the hepatic artery, the second-level branches of the cystic artery, the pancreatic duodenal artery arch and the retroportal artery. The 3D models also provided a clear vision of the biliary structures including the hepatobiliary tract, the left and right hepatic ducts, gallbladder, the liver duct, and the common bile duct.

CONCLUSIONBased on the segmentation method of interactive volume rendering, the CT data of the arterioles supplying the extrahepatic bile duct can be extracted and segmented for 3D reconstruction to display the three-dimensional anatomical structures of the extrahepatic bile duct and its supplying arteries.