Maxillofacial 3-dimensional image analysis for the diagnosis of facial asymmetry

Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop. 2006 Dec;130(6):779-85. doi: 10.1016/j.ajodo.2005.02.021.

Abstract

The advent of computed tomography has greatly reduced magnification errors from geometric distortions that are common in conventional radiographs. Recently introduced 3-dimensional (3D) software enables 3D reconstruction and quantitative measurement of the maxillofacial complex; 3D images are also useful in understanding asymmetrical structures. This article describes the use of 3D images in the diagnosis of facial asymmetry. A step-by-step procedure for 3D analysis developed by the authors is described by using the example of a 23-year-old man with a chin deviation to 1 side.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cephalometry
  • Facial Asymmetry / complications
  • Facial Asymmetry / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional / methods*
  • Korea
  • Male
  • Malocclusion, Angle Class III / complications
  • Mandible / pathology
  • Tomography, Spiral Computed