Background: Computer-based, three-dimensional reconstruction of histological sections is necessary for solving a diversity of questions in morphology and anatomy. Programming software for this purpose is difficult and time-consuming. Therefore, we tested if commercially available product-design software is useful for reconstructing anatomical virtual models.
Methods: We used Alias Wavefront Studio software on a Silicon Graphics workstation. Sections were projected with a newly developed microslide projector on a digitizing board and digitized interactively. Alternatively, pictures of sections were digitized on screen. The resulting set of contours was used as scaffold around which a surface was created manually.
Results: Repeated creation of the same object and subsequent measurements gave results that will be sufficiently reliable for many purposes. The visual presentation of objects satisfy highest demands. Little time is needed to reconstruct simple objects, and the time used for complex virtual models is acceptable. Manipulation of objects on screen is nearly in real time and rendering speed is high.
Conclusions: Product-design software packages are a readily available and useful option for anatomists who want to do virtual reconstructions quickly without programming software themselves.