Abstract: Objective To study the application of three-dimensional visualization technology for laparoscopic resection of cystic
carcinoma in the pancreatic body and tail. Methods Six cases of cystic carcinoma in the pancreatic body and tail treated
between Nov, 2009 and Mar, 2011 were retrospectively analyzed. The original image data of 64-slice spiral CT were collected
and using adaptive region growing algorithm, the serial CT images were segmented and automatically extracted to obtain the
3-dimensional reconstruction images with customized image manipulation software. The specific surgical approach (the trocar
position) and surgical procedure were planned based on the reconstructed mode. Results The reconstructed 3-dimensional
model clearly displayed cystic carcinoma in the pancreatic body and tail and the adjacent organs, showing distinct relationship
between the cystoma and the splenic artery and vein. All the patients successfully underwent laparoscopic resection of the
pancreatic body and tail without perioperative death. The spleen was preserved in 5 cases and removed in 1 case due to
mucinous cystadenocarcinoma. The overall rate of pancreatic fistulae was 33.3% without incidences of postoperative
hemorrhage. The average hospital stay of the patients was 12 days. Conclusion Three-dimensional reconstruction based on
pancreatic CT data provides valuable assistance for laparoscopic resection of cystic carcinoma in the pancreatic body and tail.