Three-dimensional photogrammetry for surgical planning of tissue expansion in hemifacial microsomia.

BACKGROUND

We aim to illustrate the applications of 3-dimensional (3-D) photogrammetry for surgical planning and longitudinal assessment of the volumetric changes in hemifacial microsomia.

METHODS

A 3-D photogrammetric system was employed for planning soft tissue expansion and transplantation of a vascularized scapular flap for a patient with hemifacial microsomia. The facial deficiency was calculated by superimposing a mirror of the normal side on the preoperative image. Postsurgical volumetric changes were monitored by serial superimposition of 3-D images.

RESULTS

A total of 31 cm(3) of tissue expansion was achieved within a period of 4 weeks. A scapular free flap measuring 8 cm × 5 cm was transplanted to augment the facial deficiency. Postsurgical shrinkage of the flap was observed mainly in the first 3 months and it was minimal thereafter.

CONCLUSION

3-D photogrammetry can be used as a noninvasive objective tool for assessing facial deformity, planning, and postoperative follow-up of surgical correction of facial asymmetry.