An open-source, three-dimensional growth model of the mandible

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Anthropology
• Computer Science

Background:

• Current reference data for mandibular growth relies on 2D measurements.
• A comprehensive 3D model of mandibular development is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop the first open-source, 3D statistical shape model of the mandible covering the complete growth period (0-22 years).
• To provide a versatile tool for scientific, clinical, and forensic applications.

Main Methods:

• Utilized computed tomography scans from 678 individuals (0-22 years).
• Employed AI-based segmentation and registration techniques for 3D model creation.
• Applied Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to analyze growth variations, age-related changes, and sexual dimorphism.

Main Results:

• Successfully generated a comprehensive 3D statistical shape model of the mandible.
• The model captures variations across the entire growth spectrum.
• PCA revealed insights into mandibular development patterns and sexual dimorphism.

Conclusions:

• The open-source 3D mandibular growth model offers novel applications in oral surgery, forensic science, and biological anthropology.
• The model can assist in clinical diagnostics, treatment planning, and evaluation.
• Accessibility promotes wider research and application in related fields.