Advances in 3D modeling is bringing about an increase in the number of clinics, universities and researchers using 3D models to visualize human anatomy. Human 3D models of both internal and external anatomy are being created from large databases of CT and MR scans. These models are segmented into regions, and then labeled appropriately. The resultant 3D models are used in interactive 3D visualization applications that run on desktop, mobile and/or Web platforms.

We have created a 3D human surface anatomy labeling system based on a digitally sculpted 3D human model. We have based our labeling system on the NYU and Anatomy Mapper 2D labeling systems currently in use in many clinics. Both systems assist with recording, diagnosing and treating various types of skin conditions. Our 3D labeling system provides clinicians with all of the advantages of the original 2D labeling system plus the ability to visualize and interact entirely in 3D. This includes the ability to highlight regions, see label names and fully pan, rotate and scale the human model.

We have built an interactive mobile Web app to showcase the labeling system. The system relies on WebGL for 3D rendering and uses texture mapping to digitally paint anatomical surface regions. Modern HTML5 canvas tools enable the texture map image to be processed in real time for interactive use such as region highlighting and land marking. Texture mapping also makes it easy to modify anatomical regions when necessary via digital painting, therefore precluding the need to modify the 3D human model itself.