Three‐dimensional imaging in craniofacial surgery

Abstract

Over the past decade, three-dimensional (3-D) imaging has been developed to such a stage of perfection and to such a level of interactive selective imaging of specific anatomic and pathologic structures that craniofacial surgeons can now use this technique effectively in the planning of complicated reconstructive surgery. In addition, modeling techniques have been devised that can be used in surgical simulation and in the manufacture of implants and prosthetic devices. The technical aspects of 3-D imaging are discussed in relation to their applications in craniofacial surgery, and reference is made to the literature describing these techniques in full detail. The results are illustrated with cases that the authors have processed by means of: (a) a clinical research program that was developed on a general purpose computer which provided full flexibility in changing and improving the reconstruction algorithms (Lobregt algorithms and DEC VAX 750 computer), (b) a system under development (Pixar PICS 2000), and (c) a commercial system (Cemax 1500X). Finally, a number of emerging techniques are discussed such as surgical stimulation (electronic sculpting), and trends such as multimodality imaging.

Anatomic realism comes to diagnostic imaging

“…Here the realistic presentation of the Operation site prior to surgery can be of decisive importance [19,20,21]. This kind of surgery …”

User interface paradigms for patient-specific surgical planning: lessons learned over a decade of research

“…Maxillofacial implant optimization has been researched by the University Hospital Groningen, Netherlands [40] and other craniofacial visualization has been done at Utrecht University Hospital [47].…”

Die Maßhaltigkeit von Stereolithographiemodellen für Operationsplanungen

“…Anatomische 3D-Modelle bedeuten für den Chirurgen eine echte Alternative zur 3D-Visualisierung am Bildschirm [4,8,11,13]. Da diese Modelle manuell genau untersucht und vermessen werden können, wurden sie vom Chirurgen sofort akzeptiert.…”