[vtkusers] Comment by a reviewer about the term "3D-recontruction"

[Boettcher, Dr. Peter]

I would like tot ask you for assistance on how to deal with a comment a reviewer made concerning a paper I have recently submit.

Comment of the reviewer:
I believe the term "reconstruction" is used incorrectly in the title and throughout the manuscript. Reconstruction refers specifically to processing of raw CT data to form images. Most image modeling programs use these reconstructed images to "render" three-dimensional image models.

What do you think about that?

Regards, Peter.

Estimation of radio-ulnar incongruence in dogs by use of three-dimensional image reconstruction: an in-vitro study based on computed tomographic imaging
Objective- To determine the sensitivity and specificity of semi-quantitative estimation of radio-ulnar incongruence (RUI) by use of three-dimensional (3D) image reconstruction in the canine elbow.
Study Design- Experimentally induced negative and positive RUI.
Sample Population- Eight cadaveric canine right forelimbs (> 20 kg).
Methods- Radial shortening and lengthening of 1 and 2 mm were performed extending an established surgical in-vitro model of RUI. Based on transverse computed tomographic (CT) scans of each radio-ulnar conformation, the subchondral radio-ulnar joint surface was 3D reconstructed and visualized as a 3D surface model in virtual space. A total of 64 3D reconstructions were blindly evaluated in a random manner by three independent observers, estimating the RUI at 1 mm precisely (-2 mm to +2 mm) including the congruent joint (RUI = 0).
Results- The median sensitivity for identifying an incongruent joint was 0.86. The median specificity for identification of a congruent joint was 0.77. Analysing the data only in respect to a congruent joint versus one with a shortened radius (positive RUI) resulted in a median sensitivity of 0.82, and a median specificity of 1.00. Inter-observer agreement was 0.87. Repeatability was 0.96. 
Conclusions- Estimation of experimental radio-ulnar incongruence at the level of the subchondral joint surface by 3D image reconstruction offers increased accuracy, compared to two-dimensional imaging modalities.
Clinical Relevance- Non-invasive estimation of RUI by use of 3D image reconstruction of the radio-ulnar articulation is precise, reliable and repeatable similar to what has been reported for arthroscopy.

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Peter Böttcher, Dr med vet, DipECVS
European Veterinary Specialist in Surgery
Fachtierarzt für Kleintierchirurgie 
Klinik für Kleintiere 
Universität Leipzig 
An den Tierkliniken 23
D-04103 Leipzig (Germany)
Tel: +49-341-9738700
Fax: +49-341-9738799
email: boettcher at kleintierklinik.uni-leipzig.de