A new three-dimensional treatment algorithm for complex surfaces: applications in surgery.
OBJECTIVE
Recent advances in computer technology enable automatic reconstruction of surface models using digitized contour lines and three-dimensional (3D) representation on a graphic terminal. This work was aimed at obtaining 3D reconstructions of facial bones to help guide oral surgery and complex dental implantology procedures.


METHODS
The starting point was a computed tomographic examination. The limits of the cortical bone were automatically outlined and then digitized using a special computer program. The resulting data were then compiled for computer-aided design (CAD) purposes, and a virtual 3D model of the bone was mathematically computed. This model was next transferred to a computer program that piloted a CAD/computer-aided manufacture (CAM) machine that guided a laser stereolithography process.


RESULTS
The early results of the use of 3D images, as well as solid models, for clinical and surgical purposes, indicate a high degree of reliability in morphologic diagnosis, determining the surgical procedure, and establishing the subsequent prognosis.
Molé
C
C
Laboratoire de Recherches Parodontales Nancy I., France.
Gérard
H
H
Mallet
J L
JL
Chassagne
J F
JF
Miller
N
N
D000465:Algorithms; D002508:Cephalometry / Q000379:methods*; D003198:Computer Simulation; D017076:Computer-Aided Design; D006259:Craniocerebral Trauma / Q000601:surgery; D005147:Facial Bones / Q000002:abnormalities / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000601:surgery*; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D007834:Lasers; D008446:Maxillofacial Injuries / Q000601:surgery; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D008954:Models, Biological; D010780:Photogrammetry / Q000379:methods; D013813:Therapy, Computer-Assisted; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed