CRANIAL MORPHOMETRY: COMPARING TRADITIONAL METHODS AND 3D SCANNERS

Area of Science:

• Anthropology
• Forensic Science
• Medical Plastic Surgery
• Orthodontics
• Maxillofacial Surgery

Background:

• Cranial morphometry traditionally relies on manual anthropometric methods, often using calipers and osteometric boards.
• These conventional techniques, while accurate when performed by experts, are time-consuming, prone to human error, and require extensive training.
• 3D laser scanning presents a modern, non-invasive approach to craniofacial anthropometry, offering repeatable and accurate measurements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy, advantages, and limitations of traditional manual methods versus 3D scanning techniques in cranial anthropometry.
• To evaluate the applicability of both methodologies across various scientific and clinical fields, including anthropology, forensic science, orthodontics, and maxillofacial surgery.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review synthesizing existing literature on cranial measurement techniques.
• Systematic literature search conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar using keywords related to conventional and laser scanning craniometry.
• Inclusion of English-language research articles and reviews focusing on direct or 3D laser-based measurements.

Main Results:

• Traditional methods require physical contact, are susceptible to human error, and demand significant training and time.
• 3D scanning provides a non-invasive, accurate, and repeatable alternative to traditional anthropometric measurements.
• Current research comparing both methods, particularly with large sample sizes, remains limited.

Conclusions:

• 3D scanning technology offers superior accuracy and efficiency for cranial measurements compared to traditional methods.
• Both techniques have applications in preserving osteological material and advancing research in anthropology, forensic medicine, orthodontics, and orthognathic surgery.
• Further research with larger sample sizes is recommended to fully validate the benefits of 3D scanning in craniometry.