Abstract

A three dimensional (3D) Pectus Excavatum (PE) model, which was used to analyze different procedure schemes, was built successfully in order to improve success rates and to improve the reliability of the Nuss procedure. Slices used to build the 3D model could be acquired by a CT image process. Image pre-processing enhanced the quality of the two-dimensional (2D) images. Pixels from costal cartilage, rigid skeleton, internal organs and musculature were separated by threshold segment to pick up useful pixels for the 3D model. The smoothing process was effective in removing noise and burrs, and it was useful for improving the precision of the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) model. At last, meshing was the necessary process before the 3D model was imported into Abaqus. The properties of costal cartilage, rib and Nuss bar were given after finite element mesh generation. The FEA results showed that this 3D model could effectively analyze thorax strain before and after the Nuss procedure. It provided important and reliable foundation for diagnosing and curing PE.

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