The application of virtual endoscopy with computed tomography in maxillofacial surgery.
OBJECTIVE
To use virtual endoscopy to obtain detailed three-dimensional images of bone, soft tissue and paranasal sinus damage as well as images of adjacent unaffected areas for optimum surgical planning.


METHODS
A spiral CT scanner was used to examine 46 cases of facial bone fractures, maxillary cysts, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and maxillary bone tumours. Data were input into a navigator workstation to create images similar to those displayed by a fiberoptic endoscope. Various 3-D images were obtained when probe sites were changed.


RESULTS
Virtual endoscopy can clearly display the anatomic structure of the paranasal sinuses, nasopharyngeal cavity and upper respiratory tract, revealing damage to the sinus wall caused by a bone tumor or fracture. In addition, the technique can be used to indicate volume changes of the upper respiratory tract in OSAS patients. These results were similar to those obtained through actual operations.


CONCLUSIONS
Virtual endoscopy is a new method which produces very clear images. It is reliable to provide detailed information for optimal operative planning.
Tao
Xuejin
X
Department of Maxillofacial, Stomatological Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China. taoxuejin@yahoo.com.cn
Zhu
Fang
F
Chen
Weimin
W
Zhu
Shengrong
S
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D004724:Endoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D008297:Male; D008440:Maxillary Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D008441:Maxillary Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008875:Middle Aged; D019647:Oral Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods; D010254:Paranasal Sinus Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D012887:Skull Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D036542:Tomography, Spiral Computed