Three-Dimensional Imaging and Computer Simulation For Office-Based Surgery

Purpose: Advancements in Computers and imaging, especially over the last 10 years, have permitted the adoption of 3-dimensional imaging protocols in the health care field. In addition, the affordability and ease of use of these modalities allow their widespread adoption and use in diagnosis and treatment planning. This is particularly important when the deformities are complex involving both function and esthetics, such as those in the dentofacial area and with orthognathic Surgery. Materials and Methods: Image fusion involves combining images from different imaging modalities to create a virtual record of an individual called a patient-specific anatomic reconstruction (PSAR). We describe the system and show its use in 1 case. Results: Image fusion and, more specifically, PSAR permit a more accurate analysis of deformity as an aid to diagnosis and treatment planning. Conclusion: Three-dimensional imaging and computer simulation can be effectively used for planning office-based procedures. The PSAR can be used to perform virtual surgery and establish a definitive and objective treatment plan for correction of a facial deformity. The end result is improved patient care and decreased expense. (C) 2009 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons J Oral Maxillofac Surg 67:2107-2114, 2009