Accuracy and reproducibility of the DAVID SLS-2 scanner in three-dimensional facial imaging.

PURPOSE: A prospective study was performed to test the accuracy and reproducibility of the DAVID-SLS-2 scanner (SLS-2) [DAVID Vision Systems GmbH], compared to the validated 3dMDtrio scanner (3dMD) [3dMD, LLC, Atlanta, GA, USA].

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

The accuracy of the SLS-2 was determined through multiple scans of a mannequin face model using both scanners. The reproducibility of a protocol for achieving consistent three-dimensional (3D) face scans in live subjects was carried out using the SLS-2. A precision of ≤1 mm was considered clinically significant.

RESULTS

The mannequin face model was reproduced with no significant errors in the SLS-2 compared to the 3dMDtrio, with normally distributed data (mean = 0.002 mm; SD = 0.01 mm). In live subjects, the forehead, midface, chin and general face region showed mean errors and SD <0.24 mm and <1 mm, respectively. In the neck area, the data were not found to be normally distributed (mean = -1.6 mm; SD = 2.1 mm).

CONCLUSION

Structured light scanning may be used for acquiring 3D face scans in live subjects in a radiation-free and reproducible manner, provided that the head of the subject is positioned in the same posture for each scan. Special care is recommended in positioning the head in the sagittal plane during scanning.