Radiological assessment of hemifacial microsomia by three-dimensional computed tomography

Hemifacial microsomia (HFM) is the commonest asymmetrical craniofacial deformity leading to underdevelopment of the craniofacial skeleton and soft tissues on the affected side. Timing of reconstructive surgery is based on a comprehensive analysis and classification of the deformity. Lateral cephalometric radiographs are of limited value because of superimposition of normal and abnormal bony structures. The skeletal and soft-tissue findings of six patients with HFM who underwent three-dimensional (3D) CT are presented. This method allows a comprehensive assessment of the deformity at a low radiation dose, 22% of that of a conventional CT scan, by the use of a low dose technique.