title: Computer-aided 3-D simulation and prediction of craniofacial surgery: a new approach.
abstract: Background: In plastic and reconstructive craniofacial surgery, careful preoperative planning is essential. In complex cases of craniofacial synostosis, rapid prototyping models are used to simulate the surgery and reduce operating time. Recently, 3-D CT model surgery has been introduced for presurgical planning and prediction of the postoperative result. Objective: For simulation of craniofacial surgery a computer-based system was developed that allows visualization and manipulation of CT-data using computer graphics techniques. Surgical procedures in all areas of the bony skull can be performed interactively. Results: The case of a child with scaphocephalus is presented. Surgery is planned using the craniofacial surgery simulator described above. Conclusion: The computer-based interactive surgery simulation systems presented here allow precise visualization of craniofacial surgery. The accurate computer-aided 3-D simulation of bone displacements is also the prerequisite for transfer of the simulated surgery using a navigation system for surgery. Thus the preoperatively planned procedure could be transferred directly to the operating table. Copyright 2001 European Association for Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery.
authors.affiliation: Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and National Biocomputation Center, Euromed Clinic, Neurochirurgie, Fürth, Stanford, CA, USA
authors.forename: Sabine
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Girod
authors.forename: Matthias
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Teschner
authors.forename: Uwe
authors.initials: U
authors.lastname: Schrell
authors.forename: Beate
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Kevekordes
authors.forename: Bernd
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Girod