Facial midline and symmetry: modified face bow

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Surgical Planning
• Anthropometry

Background:

• Accurate assessment of facial midline and symmetry is critical in reconstructive surgery and anthropological studies.
• Existing methods may lack precision or ease of use for intraoperative evaluation.
• The concept of a facial cone provides a geometric framework for facial analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a modified face bow device designed to measure facial midline and symmetry.
• To demonstrate the utility of the device in surgical and anthropological contexts.
• To establish a reproducible method for facial anthropometric assessment.

Main Methods:

• A modified face bow with Steinmann pins was designed.
• The device utilizes the apex of a conceptual facial cone, defined by ear canal points.
• The face bow is used to determine the facial midline and evaluate bony protrusions via Steinmann pins.

Main Results:

• The device successfully determines the facial midline by tracking a central Steinmann pin.
• Facial symmetry and bony protrusions can be assessed using laterally projecting Steinmann pins.
• The device offers a practical tool for intraoperative facial assessment.

Conclusions:

• The modified face bow provides an effective method for determining facial midline and symmetry.
• This device can be a valuable tool for surgeons and anthropologists.
• The facial cone concept offers a useful geometric model for facial analysis.