DOI: 10.5176/2382-6096_CMMA14.27
Authors: Haotong Xu, Fuzhou Tian, Yi Wu
Abstract: Objective: In order to overcome the obstacle that detailed spatial relationships of the omental bursa to its related spaces cannot be displayed clearly by thick-slice sectional anatomical imagery and computed tomography, we deployed a new method of three-dimensional visualization. Materials and Methods: In conjunction with Mimics® and Amira® software, we employed thin-slice cross-sectional images of the upper abdomen retrieved from second Chinese Visible Human datasets to display the spatial relationships of the omental bursa to its related spaces, especially to the left extraperitoneal space. Moreover, these spatial relationships were presented on three-dimensional sections reconstructed from second Chinese Visible Human images and computed tomography images. Results: Of importance, the left extraperitoneal space is located among the superior, inferior and splenic recesses. The appearance of the foramen bursae omenti majoris is the only pathway communicating between the superior and inferior recesses of the omental bursa, and also is the anatomic landmark between the superior and inferior recesses. Conclusion: As one of the subdiaphragmatic spaces, the omental bursa with its related spaces was imaged three-dimensionally, using a visualization technique for the first time. The visualization technique is a promising new method for exploring the detailed communication relationships among other abdominal spaces.
Keywords: visualization; omental bursa; left extraperitoneal space; spatial relationship; Visible Human Project
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