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Soft Tissue Changes Measured With Three-Dimensional Software Provides New Insights for Surgical Predictions
Yu-Jen Chang1, Antônio C O Ruellas2, Marilia S Yatabe3
1Faculty, Department of Orthodontics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, Republic of China.
Summary
Predicting soft tissue changes after two-jaw orthognathic surgery is now more accurate. This study found that soft tissue movements closely follow hard tissue movements, with a strong correlation of nearly 0.9. This allows for better 3D predictions in surgical planning.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Medical Imaging and Computer-Aided Surgery
- Biomechanical Engineering
Background:
- Predicting soft tissue changes after orthognathic surgery remains challenging despite advancements in hard tissue simulation.
- Accurate 3D soft tissue prediction is crucial for effective craniofacial reconstruction and treatment planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the three-dimensional (3D) soft tissue changes in patients undergoing two-jaw orthognathic surgery.
- To establish correlations between hard and soft tissue movements to improve predictive accuracy.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study of 40 patients undergoing two-jaw orthognathic surgery.
- 3D analysis of computed tomography data from pre-surgery to 6 months post-surgery.
- Quantification of hard and soft tissue displacements at 15 landmarks and calculation of ratios and correlations.
Main Results:
- Soft tissue movements demonstrated a high correlation (r ≈ 0.9) with underlying hard tissue movements.
- The anteroposterior component of soft tissue displacement closely followed hard tissue movement, especially in the mandible (ratio > 0.9).
- Soft tissues at maxillary and mandibular landmarks were affected similarly by skeletal movements.
Conclusions:
- The study provides surgeons with reliable ratios and correlations between hard and soft tissue changes for improved 3D predictions.
- Developed predictive equations can enhance computer-based planning programs for soft tissue outcomes in bimaxillary orthognathic surgery.
