Computed tomography-generated templates: a new approach to frontal sinus osteoplastic flap surgery.
BACKGROUND
The aim of this study was to present a new technique for frontal sinus template creation used in osteoplastic flap surgery, obviating the need for the traditional 6-ft Caldwell radiograph.


METHODS
Seventeen human cadaver skulls were studied prospectively. Using digital addition algorithms of sequential coronal computed tomography (CT) images of the frontal sinus to create a composite image, an image is printed to 1 cm = 1 cm scale. A frontal sinus template was created using this processed image and compared with a control 6-ft Caldwell radiograph.


RESULTS
The mean variance between corresponding vertical points on the templates was 0.71 mm (95% confidence interval, 0.56-0.87 mm). The mean variance between horizontal points was 1.11 mm (95% confidence interval, 0.97-1.28 mm). The mean difference in width was 2.46 mm. The plain film templates were always wider than the CT-generated templates.


CONCLUSIONS
The CT-generated frontal sinus templates are virtually identical to the Caldwell radiograph-derived templates. They may obviate the need for additional imaging and minimize the potential errors commonly associated with 6-ft Caldwell templates.
Fewins
John L
JL
Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas 78229, USA.
Otto
Pamela M
PM
Otto
Randal A
RA
D000465:Algorithms; D005626:Frontal Sinus / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed