Vascular fluorescence casting and imaging cryomicrotomy for computerized three-dimensional renal arterial reconstruction

OBJECTIVES To assess the combined use of a casting technique, cryomicrotomy imaging, and three-dimensional (3D) computer analysis as a method for visualizing and reconstructing the arterial vascular tree in a porcine renal model. MATERIAL AND METHODS The arterial branches of two porcine kidneys were filled with a fluorescent cast, after which they were cut into slices of 50 mu m in an imaging cryomicrotome. From each section, digital images of the cutting plane of the sample were taken and stored in the computer, after which stacks of images were rendered in 3D. RESULTS A 3D computerized reconstruction of the arterial vascular tree was constructed and showed the complete arterial anatomy up to arterioles of 50 mu m. CONCLUSION With visualization by fluorescence imaging cryomicrotomy, the anatomical and 3D reconstruction of the renal arterial blood supply in a pig kidney is possible up to a resolution of 50 mu m.