[Computed tomography and cranial paleoanthropology]

Area of Science:

• Paleoanthropology
• Medical Imaging
• Digital Anatomy

Background:

• Computed tomography (CT) has advanced significantly since 1972.
• Multi-slice detectors and advanced software have improved medical applications.
• CT is now a valuable tool in paleoanthropological research, particularly for fossil skulls.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the routine applications of computed tomography in cranial paleoanthropology.
• To highlight the advantages and potential disadvantages of using CT for fossil skull analysis.
• To outline the main contributions of CT to the field.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing helicoidal and multidetector CT for rapid acquisition and high spatial resolution.
• Employing 2D and 3D numerical biometry for creating reference models.
• Leveraging virtual imaging for reconstruction of anatomical structures and analysis of specimen condition.

Main Results:

• CT enables numerical anatomy with digital storage and 3D printing.
• Numerical biometry facilitates the creation of normograms and 3D craniofacial models.
• Virtual imaging allows reconstruction of internal structures and analysis of conservation status.
• 4D imaging provides insights into movement and enables endoscopic simulation.

Conclusions:

• Computed tomography offers significant advantages for studying fossil skulls due to its non-destructive nature and advanced imaging capabilities.
• CT facilitates detailed numerical anatomy, biometry, and virtual reconstruction, aiding in specimen characterization and conservation.
• Future developments will focus on data processing and networking, further enhancing CT's role in paleoanthropology.