Midfacial measurement using occlusal maxillary CT and surgical implications of maxillary osteotomies

ABSTRACT

methods have been used in the past to indirectly analyze the craniofacial region. Among these, the lateral and posterior-anterior cephalometircs are used for the evaluation of the dentofacial deformities. However, cephalometircs create inaccuracies because of the inherent enlargement and distortion of the image. The interpretation of cephalometric films is also problematic the number of anatomic landmarks that can be identified accurately is limited, and the overlap of structures on a radiograph making locating these landmarks difficult. To overcome these problems, computed tomography(CT) has been recommended as an useful modality in the diagnosis, surgical planning, and follow-up of craniofacial anomalies. There is no significant enlargement or distortion of the image, overlap of structure, or tracing error. And the number of anatomic landmarks is vast. The purpose of this study was to examine the orbit and midfacial region using Occlusal Maxillary CT, consisted of slices parallel to the occlusal plane. Based on these CT scan, we provide the data that could be applied to monitor an individual patient's skeletal pattern and the guide to the maxillary osteotomy.