[Three-dimensional computerized tomography of diseases of the bones and joints].

Three-dimensional CT (3-DCT) surface reconstructions were generated in 157 patients with various disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Whereas generating the 3-D display of ligaments, tendons, intervertebral discs and nerve roots was difficult and time-consuming, the comprehension of complex abnormalities of bony structures was easier than with two-dimensional CT. 3-DCT was particularly useful in the preoperative planning of hip and spine surgeries while it also simplified the intraoperative orientation. 3-DCT proved to be a useful diagnostic method supplementing axial computed tomography.