Clinical Craniofacial Science: Reconnecting Perspectives Across Craniofacial Interfaces
Joe Iwanaga1,2,3,4,5,6
1Department of Neurosurgery, Tulane University School of Medicine.
The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
|July 21, 2026
Summary
This study proposes clinical craniofacial science as a collaborative framework to bridge disciplinary gaps in understanding the interconnected craniofacial region. It emphasizes integrating diverse specialties to address complex anatomical and functional interfaces.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
- Dental Science
Background:
- The craniofacial region is highly interconnected but studied in fragmented disciplinary perspectives.
- This fragmentation leads to isolated investigation of critical craniofacial interfaces and transitional zones.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose clinical craniofacial science as an interface-centered collaborative framework.
- To reconnect fragmented disciplinary perspectives across craniofacial interfaces and transitional zones.
Main Methods:
- Utilized representative examples like the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and craniocervical junction.
- Discussed how disciplinary compartmentalization creates blind spots in anatomy, imaging, biomechanics, and surgical planning.
- Highlighted the need for integration between clinical disciplines and translational anatomy/biological sciences.
Main Results:
- Disciplinary silos create conceptual blind spots impacting anatomical understanding, imaging interpretation, and surgical planning.
- Interdisciplinary integration reveals broader biological questions in tissue adaptation, mechanobiology, and development.
- Reconsidering the craniofacial region as a continuous network of interfaces is crucial.
Conclusions:
- Clinical craniofacial science is an interface-centered framework, not a new specialty.
- Integration across clinical and biological sciences is essential for advancing craniofacial research and practice.
- A holistic view of the craniofacial region as interconnected interfaces is needed.
Keywords:
Clinical anatomycraniocervical junctioncraniofacial interfacesinterdisciplinary collaborationtemporomandibular jointtranslational anatomyMore Related Videos
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