Three-dimensional reconstruction of colorectal tumors from serial tissue sections by computer graphics: A preliminary study

Background/Aims: We present herein the three-dimensional reconstruction of colorectal tumors, with particular reference to growth pattern into each la yer of the colorectal wall, and measurement of tumor volume and surface are a. Methodology: Conventional tissue section images of colorectal tumors were a nalyzed using a computer graphics analysis program. The two-dimensional ext ent of invasion by each tumor into each layer of intestinal wall were deter mined from the images of each section. Based on data from multiple sections , tumor and surrounding normal tissue layers were reconstructed three-dimen sionally, and volume and surface area of the tumors were determined. Results: Using this technique, three-dimensional morphology of tumor and tu mor progression into colorectal wall could be determined. Volume and surfac e area of the colon tumor were 4871mm(3) and 1741mm(2), respectively. Volum e and surface area of the rectal tumor were 1090mm(3) and 877mm(2), respect ively. Conclusions: This technique may provide a new approach for pathological ana lysis of colorectal carcinoma.