The "third" dimension in craniofacial surgery.

A new method for reconstruction of a three-dimensional surface from a sequence of high-resolution axial CT scans has been developed. This algorithm is realized as a set of computer programs that can operate on commercially available CT scanners or evaluation consoles. The program is both efficient and easy to implement. No operator intervention is required. The images produced simulate photographs of the skull. Frontal, lateral, oblique, bird's eye, worm's eye, and rear views are generated. As with photographs and conventional radiographs, each of these projections uniquely displays specific anatomic details. This method of osseous surface reconstruction is now routinely applied to all patients evaluated for major craniofacial reconstruction at our institution. The images are useful in defining aberrant anatomy, planning surgical procedures, and evaluating the results of such operations. This method replaces an inexact concept in the surgeon's imagination with a three-dimensional image of the craniofacial skeleton.