The application of roentgencephalometry to the study of craniofacial anomalies.

Objective quantitative methods for standardized reproducible descriptions of the findings of an examination are prerequisite for the optimal care of patients with congenital or acquired craniofacial anomalies. The present report gives a brief review of the development of roentgencephalometry with special emphasis on the infant roentgencephalometric techniques pioneered by Dr. Samuel Pruzansky. In addition, some of the significant findings that have emerged from the application of these techniques to patients with craniofacial anomalies are presented, again, with emphasis on the contributions made by Dr. Pruzansky and co-workers. Finally, perspectives for future clinical and research work within the field are outlined. These perspectives include improvement of cephalometric units for studies of patients with craniofacial anomalies; inclusion of additional cephalometric projections, especially in patients with craniofacial asymmetry; increased utilization of infant cephalometry; utilization of metallic implants in selected cases; greater utilization of computerized cephalometrics and multivariate statistics; and combined use of longitudinal cephalometric studies and various longitudinal physiological examinations, eg, electromyography, kinesiography, and air flow studies, in the individual patient.