Immersive 3D Photogrammetry of the Anterior Circulation with Overlapped Angiogram

Introduction: Understanding angiographic anatomy requires a solid foundation in neurovascular anatomy, whichmust be correlated to the structures highlighted in standard catheter angiograms. Further, to be able to successfully use an angiogram to guide operative decisions and understand how a lesion has distorted the anatomy, one must be able to rebuild the anatomy surrounding the vessels displayed in the angiogram. Tools that integrate neuroanatomical models and angiographic models to practically interpret angiograms are lacking. The aim of this study is to correlate three-dimensional (3D) anatomical models with angiographic images of the same specimen so trainees can modularly build the correlate an angiogram with gross neurovascular anatomy.

Methods: Four sides of two formalin-fixed head specimens were utilized to perform internal carotid artery angiograms. The specimens were subsequently injected with red latex and anatomical dissections were performed to highlight the vessels seen in the angiogram. 3D photogrammetry models were then superimposed with the 3D angiography and projected into virtual reality using virtual reality goggles. The model was then provided to 30 neurosurgeons to assess its ease of use and practical value through a survey.

Results: A final 3D model was created and superimposed with the 3D angiography, then integrated into virtual reality environments. In this 3D environment, the model's transparency could be selectively modified. The 3D model was evaluated by 30 physicians and was deemed a powerful tool for educational purposes.

Conclusion: It is feasible to create a model that displays a 3D photogrammetry model of an anatomical dissection with a 3D angiogram of the same specimen. This allows for more interactive and comprehensive understanding of angiographic findings and how they relate to gross neurovascular anatomy.

Publication History

Article published online:
07 February 2025