Craniofacial applications of three-dimensional laser surface scanning

J Craniofac Surg. 2003 Jul;14(4):449-56. doi: 10.1097/00001665-200307000-00009.

Abstract

Recent innovations in technology have generated a variety of techniques for medical imaging. One of these initially developed for industry is laser surface scanning. Laser surface scanning is a noninvasive method for acquiring three-dimensional (3D) images. In this article, the technology of 3D laser surface scanning is described, and a few applications are reported as it relates to craniofacial research and clinical practice. Advantages and disadvantages of this imaging modality are discussed. Three-dimensional laser surface scanning holds great promise as it relates to the documentation, analysis, and evaluation of treatment results in craniofacial anomalies.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Craniofacial Abnormalities / diagnosis
  • Craniofacial Abnormalities / therapy
  • Face / anatomy & histology*
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / instrumentation
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / methods
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional / methods*
  • Infant
  • Lasers*
  • Skull / anatomy & histology*
  • Treatment Outcome