Abstract:

Introduction. Neuroanatomy is one of the key fields in neurosciences. However, its contents are both complex and dfficult to understand for most of medical students. Three-dimensional models have demostrted to be a useful resource in training contexts by reducing the cognitive load associated to mental reconstuction from plane cross-sectional images.
Aim. The objective of this study is to develop both realistic and interactive digital threedimensional models of neuroanatomical structures. In particular, special attention is drawn to deep brain structures such as craneal nerves and neurovascular elements for training purposes at undergraduate level.
Methods. The volumetric reconstructions were developed using Autodesk® Maya® version 13. This is profesional software for 3D animation, which delivers a comprehensive set of tools for modeling; simulation and rendering that met the demanding requirements for this project.
Results. Digital three-dimensional models of brain structures, in particular, vascular system and craneal nerves were developed allowing a comprehensive and interactive tool for the exploration and study of complex neuroanatomical contents in educational settings providing a new tool for supporting independent learning. This tool provides highly complexity and detailed reconstructions of neurovascular system.
Discussion. This advanced visualization system provides a unique computer-based learning environment for exploring and understanding the structure of brain structures, craneal nerves and neurovascular system. Three of the most difficult contents in neuroanatomy given their complex spatial relations. This tool incorporates a comprehensive, visually rich, tridimensional representation of the brain, vascular system and craneal nerves and also features surface views of structures contained within the brain, as well as interactive tools for diseccting the brain and vieweing cross-sections living subjects imaged by magnetic resonance. These features make of this tool a single source for teaching and understanding complex neuroanatomical contents and an excellent resource for neuroscience professors, students and health care professionals. It provides a visual introduction to the localition of the major brain structures, craneal nerves and vascular systems of the human nervous system and allows to explore high-resolution three-dimensional models of real human body, which allow to virtually dissect the human brain in high-resolution in vivo images, comprised of coronal, axial, and sagittal sections, including complete series of sections in each anatomical plane to examine and follow the flow of information in craneal nerves. It also includes additional features such as zoom for detailed inspection, individual selection of structures and hierarquical organization of brain structures.
Conclusion. This advance visualization tool offers a new learning material, which enhances the visualization and exploration of morphological and spatial relations among 3D models of brain structures, craneal nerves and vascular system. In sum, a complete, visual and interactive resource for the teaching in neuroanatomy.

Keywords:

Learning, teaching innovation, vascular neuroanatomy, Maya.