Method selection in craniofacial measurements: Advantages and disadvantages of 3D digitization method

Aim: Treatment of the craniofacial malformations is a primary goal of cranio-maxillo-facial surgeons. Surgical treatment of these malformations requires accurate data. Accuracy of measurement should be a priority of scientists to prevent statistical errors and therefore to promote the comparison of the results obtained from various research groups. In the present study, we aimed to compare three different measurement techniques, which were used frequently in craniofacial measurements. Methods: A total number of 35 female and 35 male volunteer adults were included to the study. Two-dimensional (2D) photogrammetry, three-dimensional (3D) digitization and manual anthropometry methods were used for the present study. Measurements were obtained from the ear, eye, nose and face. Results: By comparing three methods, our findings revealed that 3D digitization method is an easy, robust, and sensitive method to obtain the data. Conclusions: We think that 3D digitization method is accurate, and it can be applied to both clinical practice and research. Advantages and disadvantages of three methods are discussed with the relevant literature. (C) 2009 European Association for CranioMaxillofacial Surgery