3D Root Canal Cross-Section Visualization for File Path Planning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for identifying the three-dimensional shape of a root canal are inadequate, leading to potential file breakage and secondary inflammation during nerve treatments due to the inability to accurately assess the root canal's length, thickness, and curvature.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for visualizing the cross-sectional size of the root canal using CT image data and three-dimensional rendering, allowing users to select a target region of interest and display the cross-sectional size with various visual factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the root canal is displayed in a single two-dimensional image for identification, then the identification process is simple and quick, but the three-dimensional shape and cross-sectional size cannot be accurately identified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional image display to three-dimensional volumetric rendering of the root canal. The system generates multiple cross-sectional images at different depths and combines them into a three-dimensional model, allowing accurate visualization of the root canal's spatial configuration, curvature, and cross-sectional variations throughout its entire length.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the root canal into multiple cross-sectional slices at different depths (z-positions). Each slice is processed independently to calculate local cross-sectional size, and then these segments are assembled into a complete three-dimensional representation. This segmentation enables precise measurement of cross-sectional dimensions at any point along the root canal.
2Ease of manufacture
If the cross-sectional size of the root canal is not accurately identified, then the treatment process is simpler, but the risk of file breakage and secondary inflammation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary three-dimensional reconstruction and cross-sectional size calculation before the actual nerve treatment procedure. By pre-visualizing the root canal's complete geometry, curvature, and cross-sectional variations, the dentist can plan the treatment pathway in advance, select appropriate file sizes and shapes, and anticipate potential risks before beginning the procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time visual feedback during treatment planning by displaying cross-sectional size measurements and three-dimensional root canal morphology. This feedback loop allows the dentist to adjust the treatment approach based on the actual anatomical findings, ensuring that file selection and insertion techniques are optimized to prevent breakage while maintaining treatment simplicity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient nerve treatments by accurately guiding the tool path and preventing secondary inflammation by providing precise visualization of the root canal's cross-sectional size.
Implementation Method 1
displaying an image of a tooth by using CT image data of at least one tooth
Data Source
AI summary
Proposed are a method and an apparatus for visualizing a cross-sectional size of the root canal, the method being performed by at least one processor. The method may include displaying an image of a tooth by using CT image data of at least one tooth and three-dimensional rendering data of the root canal of the tooth, calculating, in response to a user selecting a target region of interest by using the image of the tooth, a cross-sectional size of at least a portion of the root canal included in the target region of interest, and displaying at least a portion of the calculated cross-sectional size by a visual factor.