Utility of 3D facial reconstruction for forensic identification: a focus on facial soft tissue thickness and...

Facial reconstruction, a crucial method in forensic identification, finds particular significance in cases where conventional means of identification are unavailable. This study addresses a significant gap in the field of forensic facial reconstruction focusing on facial soft tissue thickness (FSTT) and facial reconstruction techniques specifically tailored to the Thai population. By developing and implementing the 3D (three-dimensional) facial reconstruction program and compiling an extensive dataset of FSTT, this research makes substantial progress in advancing forensic facial reconstruction methodologies employing the combination Manchester Method, 3D skull images obtained through cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans were reconstructed using Autodesk Maya software. A dataset comprising 100 Thai cadavers underwent FSTT measurements via ultrasound (US) for 53 landmarks, with subsequent facial comparisons of 10 samples between reconstructed faces and real photographs conducted using the facial pool comparison and the structural similarity index (SSIM). The accuracy of facial pool comparison ranged from 30 to 80%, reflecting a wide range due to human errors. Thus, incorporating computerized assessment is necessary to minimize human bias. SSIM values ranged from 0.76 to 0.89, indicating strong similarity between reconstructed and real faces and validating the reconstruction process's accuracy. These findings suggest that the facial soft tissue thickness database of the Thai population used in this study can effectively support 3D computerized facial reconstruction. Moreover, this study sets the stage for future advancements in facial reconstruction methodologies tailored to diverse populations, emphasizing the ongoing need for comprehensive data gathering and technique refinement to enhance accuracy and applicability in forensic investigations.