Two-dimensional cephalometry and computerized orthognathic surgical treatment planning

Cephalometric radiographs provide for standardized skull/facial views that allow for comparison over time to assess growth in an individual, and to compare that individual against standardized population norms. Cephalometric analysis and surgical prediction are done by robust cephalometric imaging software that can rapidly analyze the radiograph, and retrace and recalculate the analysis for a variety of possible surgical outcomes; however, the validity of the prediction depends on the accuracy of the records, the algorithm specific to the software, and the specifics of the patient population. Three-dimensional digital imaging to replace conventional two-dimensional photographic images and CT scans, with corresponding cephalometric analysis to replace two-dimensional cephalometric films, is already on the horizon.