OBJECTIVETo study the application of digitized three-dimensional (3D) image reconstruction in living-related kidney transplantation.

METHODSThe image data of 16-slice spiral CT in 5 cases of living-related kidney transplantation were collected to reconstruct the 3D model of the donor and recipient, which were then imported in the FreeForm Modeling System. The optimal surgical approach for each individual case was planned and simulated for verification. During the actual surgeries, the surgical findings were compared against the reconstructed model and the results of simulated surgery.

RESULTSThe 3D model clearly displayed the anatomy of the kidney and the variation of the related vessels. The optimal surgical approaches were planned through the simulated surgery. The anatomy of the kidney and the related vessels found in the actual surgeries were consistent with that displayed by the reconstructed 3D model. All the operations were completed successfully according to the surgical plan, and the patients recovered uneventfully without obvious complications.

CONCLUSIONThree-dimensional reconstruction and simulated surgery allow optimization of the surgical approaches of living-related kidney transplantation to ensure successful operation and minimize the surgical risks.