Virtual facial reconstruction based on accurate registration and fusion of 3D facial and MSCT scans

Objectives Accurate registration and feasible fusion of a three-dimensional (3D) photorealistic surface images (captured using the FaceSCAN3D ® Scientific Photo Lab) from multislice spiral computed tomography (MSCT) images is important to achieve optimal craniomaxillofacial surgery outcomes; thus, the aim of this work was to optimize this process. Methods MSCT and 3D facial scans were acquired from 37 randomly selected patients. Using the Invesalius software package, skin and bone tissue models were reconstructed. The 3D photorealistic surface images were then constructed. Four image registration processes were performed using Geomagic Studio software: manual Procrustes and semi-automatic registration (global modified ICP) using both 7 and 15 anthropometric landmarks. The statistical differences were assessed using one-way ANOVA and LSD tests. P values