3D cephalometrics in orthognathic surgery

Aim: The aim of this study was to combine the huge amount of information of low dose Cone Beam CT with a cephalometric simplified protocol thanks to the latest informatics aids. Material and methods: 130 patients were selected randomly for the study. They ranged in age from 8 to 42 years; there were 80 females and 50 males. Each patient had already lateral and posteroanterior cephalograms taken less than 6 months earlier, and CBCT images. Results: Statistically significant differences were found between cephalometric angular and linear measurements taken with conventional radiographs vs those taken with CBCT (p<0.01). In contrast to those on radiographs, the angular and linear measurements three-dimensionally detected, become real, moreover the selection of fewer points and the automatic measurements made by the computer reduced human error, for a much more reliable and repeatable diagnosis. (p<0.01) Conclusion: Three-dimensional imaging provides information and images of craniofacial structures free from perspective distortion, with none of the magnification or superimposition associated with 2D images. This method saves time and increases precision, offering a valuable aid to orthodontic-surgical diagnosis. The value of a 3D image model directly corresponds to the quality of the information.