title: CAD/CAM splint based on soft tissue 3D simulation for treatment of facial asymmetry.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Most cases of facial asymmetry involve yaw deformity, and determination of the yaw correction level is very difficult.
  
  
  METHODS
  We use three-dimensional soft tissue simulation to determine the yaw correction level. This three-dimensional simulation is based on the addition of cephalometric prediction to gradual yaw correction. Optimal yaw correction is determined visually, and an intermediate splint is fabricated with computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing. Application of positioning devices and the performance of horseshoe osteotomy are advisable.
  
  
  RESULTS
  With this procedure, accurate repositioning of jaws was confirmed and patients obtained fairly good facial contour.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This procedure is a promising method for a widespread, predictable treatment of facial asymmetry.
authors.affiliation: Department of Science of Physical Functions, Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kyushu Dental University, Kitakyushu, Japan.
authors.forename: Kazuhiro
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Tominaga
authors.affiliation: Department of Science of Physical Functions, Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kyushu Dental University, Kitakyushu, Japan.
authors.forename: Manabu
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Habu
authors.affiliation: Department of Science of Physical Functions, Division of Oral Medicine, Kyushu Dental University, Kitakyushu, Japan.
authors.forename: Hiroki
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Tsurushima
authors.affiliation: Department of Science of Physical Functions, Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kyushu Dental University, Kitakyushu, Japan.
authors.forename: Osamu
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: Takahashi
authors.affiliation: Department of Science of Physical Functions, Division of Oral Medicine, Kyushu Dental University, Kitakyushu, Japan.
authors.forename: Izumi
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Yoshioka
keywords: 3D simulation; CAD/CAM; Facial asymmetry; Horseshoe osteotomy; Orthognathic surgery; Positioning device; Soft tissue