Quantification of facial asymmetry: A comparative study of landmark-based and surface-based registrations

Maxillary sinus volume and facial asymmetry after unilateral zygomaticomaxillary complex fracture reduction with 2, 3, and 4 fixation points: CBCT-based investigation

PURPOSE

This study aimed to assess the maxillary sinus volume (MSV), Chronic Sinusitis incidence, and asymmetry of the zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) following ZMC fracture surgery with various numbers of fixation points.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a prospective non-randomized cohort, 50 adults with unilateral ZMC fractures who treated by open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) between November 2019 and October 2021 were assigned to accomplish this study. They distributed into three groups as per fixation points (2, 3, or 4 Points). Preoperative (T1), Immediate postoperative (T2), and follow-up (T3) cone beam computed topography were analyzed using the Mimics software. The main measures were MSV and asymmetry indexes (ASI) of six paired bilateral anatomical landmarks (Orbital, Suprajugal, Jugale, Zygon, Maxillozygion 1, and Maxillozygion 2).

RESULTS

MSV decreased significantly on the affected sides postoperatively in 2P and 3P groups, both in T2 and T3. Further, the T2-T3 comparisons showed a significant MSV change (p = 0.001). ASI reduced considerably to clinically tolerated levels (<3 mm) on landmarks near the fixation sites postoperatively. The ASI on the Zygon and Maxillozygion 1 landmarks showed significant changes among the three groups in both T2 and T3. Interestingly, only five cases had reported postoperative sinusitis symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the MSV was changed among the different fixation point groups, the incidence of chronic sinusitis was uncommon. Bilateral asymmetry affected by number and position of the fixation points, fixation with 4 points provide more symmetry.

Site and severity of facial asymmetry after bimaxillary surgery for class III deformity: a case-control study

OBJECTIVES

The study aimed (1) to evaluate the site and severity of facial asymmetry in Class III patients before and after bimaxillary surgery, and (2) to identify the influence of initial severity and positional jaw asymmetry on residual facial asymmetry.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Preoperative and postoperative cone-beam computed tomography of 65 patients with Class III facial asymmetry who underwent bimaxillary surgery were evaluated. Five midline and 14 paramedian facial soft tissue landmarks were identified to assess facial asymmetry. The outcomes were compared to a control group consisting of 30 age- and gender-matched Class I subjects. The postoperative positional jaw asymmetry (i.e., shift, roll, yaw) of each osteotomy segment (maxilla, mandible, chin, ramus) was also measured.

RESULTS

Before surgery, the asymmetry was more severe at the chin, middle and lower contour. Bimaxillary surgery effectively corrected facial asymmetry, particularly in achieving normalization of chin deviation. However, significant asymmetry persisted postoperatively in the middle and lower contour (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively), which was affected by the positional ramus asymmetry in the roll and shift.

CONCLUSIONS

Deviation of the chin, middle and lower contour contributed significantly to overall facial asymmetry in Class III asymmetry. Despite normalization of the chin deviation after bimaxillary surgery, asymmetry persisted at the middle and lower contour, primarily as the result of insufficient correction of the positional ramus asymmetry.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Understanding the residual asymmetry after bimaxillary surgery is important for minimizing deviation and optimizing the surgical planning for its correction.

A three-dimensional algorithm for precise measurement of human auricle parameters

Measurement of auricle parameters for planning and post-operative evaluation presents substantial challenges due to the complex 3D structure of the human auricle. Traditional measurement methods rely on manual techniques, resulting in limited precision. This study introduces a novel automated surface-based three-dimensional measurement method for quantifying human auricle parameters. The method was applied to virtual auricles reconstructed from Computed Tomography (CT) scans of a cadaver head and subsequent measurement of important clinically relevant aesthetical auricular parameters (length, width, protrusion, position, auriculocephalic angle, and inclination angle). Reference measurements were done manually (using a caliper and using a 3D landmarking method) and measurement precision was compared to the automated method. The CT scans were performed using both a contemporary high-end and a low-end CT scanner. Scans were conducted at a standard scanning dose, and at half the dose. The automatic method demonstrated significantly higher precision in measuring auricle parameters compared to manual methods. Compared to traditional manual measurements, precision improved for auricle length (9×), width (5×), protrusion (5×), Auriculocephalic Angle (5-54×) and posteroanterior position (23×). Concerning parameters without comparison with a manual method, the precision level of supero-inferior position was 0.489 mm; and the precisions of the inclination angle measurements were 1.365 mm and 0.237 mm for the two automated methods investigated. Improved precision of measuring auricle parameters was associated with using the high-end scanner. A higher dose was only associated with a higher precision for the left auricle length. The findings of this study emphasize the advantage of automated surface-based auricle measurements, showcasing improved precision compared to traditional methods. This novel algorithm has the potential to enhance auricle reconstruction and other applications in plastic surgery, offering a promising avenue for future research and clinical application.

Automatic three-dimensional facial symmetry reference plane construction based on facial planar reflective symmetry net

OBJECTIVES

Three-dimensional (3D) facial symmetry analysis is based on the 3D symmetry reference plane (SRP). Artificial intelligence (AI) is widely used in the dental and oral sciences. This study developed a novel deep learning model called the facial planar reflective symmetry net (FPRS-Net) to automatically construct an SRP and established a method for defining a 3D point-cloud region of interest (ROI) and high-dimensional feature computations suitable for this network model.

METHODS

Overall, 240 patients were enroled. The deep learning model was trained and predicted using 200 samples, and its clinical suitability was evaluated with 40 samples. Four FPRS-Net models were prepared, each using supervised and unsupervised learning approaches based on full facial and ROI data (FPRS-NetS, FPRS-NetSR, FPRS-NetU, and FPRS-NetUR). These models were trained on 160 3D facial datasets, validated on 20 cases, and tested on another 20 cases. The model predictions were evaluated using an additional 40 clinical 3D facial datasets by comparing the mean square error of the SRP between the parameters predicted by the four FPRS-Net models and the truth plane. The clinical suitability of FPRS-Net models was evaluated by measuring the angle error between the predicted and ground-truth planes; experts evaluated the predicted SRP of the four FPRS-Net models using the visual analogue scales (VAS) method.

RESULTS

The FPRS-NetSR and FPRS-NetU models achieved an average angle error of 0.84° and 0.99° in predicting 3D facial SRP, respectively, with a VAS value of >8. Using the four FPRS-Net models to create an SRP in 40 cases of 3D facial data required <4 s.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrated a new solution for automatically constructing oral clinical 3D facial SRPs.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

This study proposes a novel deep learning algorithm (FPRS-Net) to construct a symmetry reference plane that can reduce workload, shorten the time required for digital design, reduce dependence on expert experience, and improve therapeutic efficiency and effectiveness in dental clinics.

Does facial asymmetry vary between subjects of different age groups? A 3D stereophotogrammetry analysis

This study was aimed to assess whether facial asymmetry increases with age and to examine potential gender differences using 3D stereophotogrammetry. A prospective cross-sectional study was performed. 3D photographs were acquired from 600 control subjects, 300 male, 300 female, and were stratified into 15 different age groups ranging from 0 to 70+. The 3D photographs were postprocessed and mirrored. The original and mirrored faces were surface-based matched using an iterative closest point algorithm. The primary outcome variable, facial asymmetry, was evaluated by calculating the absolute mean distance between the original and mirrored images. The primary predictor was age. Pearson's correlation was used to assess the correlation between facial asymmetry and age. The average overall facial asymmetry was 0.72 mm (SD 0.72 mm; range 0.25 - 3.04 mm). Mean facial asymmetry increased significantly with age, from 0.45 mm in the age group of 0-4 years to 0.98 mm in the age group of 70+ (p<0.001). Facial asymmetry was positively correlated with age (Pearson's r = 0.55; p<0.001). Male subjects were significantly more asymmetric compared to females, 0.77 mm and 0.67 mm, respectively (p<0.001). This study indicates that facial asymmetry significantly increases with age and is significantly larger in males than in females.

3D facial mask for facial asymmetry diagnosis

Objectives

Facial asymmetry is a common problem seen in orthodontic clinics that may affect patient esthetics. In some instances, severe asymmetry that affects patient esthetics may cause psychological issues. An objective method is therefore required to help orthodontists identify asymmetry issues.

Materials and methods

We used three-dimensional (3D) facial images and landmark-based anthropometric analysis to construct a 3D facial mask to evaluate asymmetry. The landmark coordinates were transformed using a symmetric 3D face model to evaluate the efficacy of this method. Patients with facial asymmetry were recruited to conduct mirror and overlap analysis to form color maps, which were used to verify the utility of the novel soft tissue landmark-based method.

Results

The preliminary results demonstrated that the asymmetry evaluation method had a similar response rate compared to diagnosis using mirror and overlap 3D images, and could therefore identify 3D asymmetry problems.

Conclusions

By using 3D facial scans and 3D anthropometric analysis, we developed a preliminary evaluation method that provides objective parameters to clinically evaluate patient facial asymmetry and aid in the diagnosis of asymmetric areas.

Clinical relevance

This study presents a novel facial asymmetry diagnostic method that has the potential to aid clinical decisions during problem identification, treatment planning, and efficacy evaluation.

Toward an application of automatic evaluation system for central facial palsy using two simple evaluation indices in emergency medicine

A stroke is a medical emergency and thus requires immediate treatment. Paramedics should accurately assess suspected stroke patients and promptly transport them to a hospital with stroke care facilities; however, current assessment procedures rely on subjective visual assessment. We aim to develop an automatic evaluation system for central facial palsy (CFP) that uses RGB cameras installed in an ambulance. This paper presents two evaluation indices, namely the symmetry of mouth movement and the difference in mouth shape, respectively, extracted from video frames. These evaluation indices allow us to quantitatively evaluate the degree of facial palsy. A classification model based on these indices can discriminate patients with CFP. The results of experiments using our dataset show that the values of the two evaluation indices are significantly different between healthy subjects and CFP patients. Furthermore, our classification model achieved an area under the curve of 0.847. This study demonstrates that the proposed automatic evaluation system has great potential for quantitatively assessing CFP patients based on two evaluation indices.

Comparative Analysis of Three Facial Scanners for Creating Digital Twins by Focusing on the Difference in Scanning Method

BACKGROUND

Multi-dimensional facial imaging is increasingly used in hospital clinics. A digital twin of the face can be created by reconstructing three-dimensional (3D) facial images using facial scanners. Therefore, the reliability, strengths, and weaknesses of scanners should be investigated and approved; Methods: Images obtained from three facial scanners (RayFace, MegaGen, and Artec Eva) were compared with cone-beam computed tomography images as the standard. Surface discrepancies were measured and analyzed at 14 specific reference points; Results: All scanners used in this study achieved acceptable results, although only scanner 3 obtained preferable results. Each scanner exhibited weak and strong points because of differences in the scanning methods. Scanner 2 exhibited the best result on the left endocanthion; scanner 1 achieved the best result on the left exocanthion and left alare; and scanner 3 achieved the best result on the left exocanthion (both cheeks); Conclusions: These comparative analysis data can be used when creating digital twins through segmentation, selecting and merging data, or developing a new scanner to overcome all shortcomings.

Evidence-Based Medicine: Facial Reanimation

This article provides a brief historical overview of the assessment instruments that have been developed to categorize the severity of disease in patients with facial palsy. Important advances in the quality of these instruments are discussed. The modern-day instruments that are commonly required for evidence-based patient assessment are then presented, with emphasis on the level of evidence of the studies that describe these instruments.

Evaluation of facial soft tissue asymmetric changes in Class III patients after orthognathic surgery using three-dimensional stereophotogrammetry

The aim of this study was to investigate changes in facial soft tissue asymmetry over time after orthognathic surgery in Class III patients using three-dimensional stereophotogrammetry. The study included 101 patients with a skeletal Class III malocclusion (72 female, 29 male; age range 19-53 years, mean age 28.6 years) who underwent orthognathic surgery. The minimum follow-up was 12 months. Three-dimensional photographs were acquired using the 3dMDtrio stereophotogrammetry system, and 21 anthropometric landmark positions were evaluated at three time points: before surgery (T0), 6 months (T1) and 12 months (T2) after surgery. Facial asymmetry was assessed and classified as follows: 0-2 mm, mild; 2-5 mm, moderate;> 5 mm, severe. The average distance for whole face asymmetry differed between T0 (median 0.76 mm) and T1 (median 0.70 mm); however, there was no statistically significant difference at any time point. The chin volume asymmetry score differed significantly between T0 (median 1.11 mm) and T1 and T2 (median 1.08 mm for both; P < 0.001 and P = 0.001, respectively), but not between T1 and T2 (P = 0.061). The study findings indicate that the asymmetry of the facial soft tissues has the potential to return after 6 months, without reaching the baseline.

Guidelines for Accurate Multi-Temporal Model Registration of 3D Scanned Objects

Changes in object morphology can be quantified using 3D optical scanning to generate 3D models of an object at different time points. This process requires registration techniques that align target and reference 3D models using mapping functions based on common object features that are unaltered over time. The goal of this study was to determine guidelines when selecting these localized features to ensure robust and accurate 3D model registration. For this study, an object of interest (tibia bone replica) was 3D scanned at multiple time points, and the acquired 3D models were aligned using a simple cubic registration block attached to the object. The size of the registration block and the number of planar block surfaces selected to calculate the mapping functions used for 3D model registration were varied. Registration error was then calculated as the average linear surface variation between the target and reference tibial plateau surfaces. We obtained very low target registration errors when selecting block features with an area equivalent to at least 4% of the scanning field of view. Additionally, we found that at least two orthogonal surfaces should be selected to minimize registration error. Therefore, when registering 3D models to measure multi-temporal morphological change (e.g., mechanical wear), we recommend selecting multiplanar features that account for at least 4% of the scanning field of view. For the first time, this study has provided guidelines for selecting localized object features that can provide accurate 3D model registration for 3D scanned objects.

Facial Scanning Accuracy with Stereophotogrammetry and Smartphone Technology in Children: A Systematic Review

The aim of the study was to systematically review and compare the accuracy of smartphone scanners versus stereophotogrammetry technology for facial digitization in children. A systematic literature search strategy of articles published from 1 January 2010 to 30 August 2022 was adopted through a combination of Mesh terms and free text words pooled through boolean operators on the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, LILACS, and OpenGrey. Twenty-three articles met the inclusion criteria. Stationary stereophotogrammetry devices showed a mean accuracy that ranged from 0.087 to 0.860 mm, portable stereophotogrammetry scanners from 0.150 to 0.849 mm, and smartphones from 0.460 to 1.400 mm. Regarding the risk of bias assessment, fourteen papers showed an overall low risk, three articles had unclear risk and four articles had high risk. Although smartphones showed less performance on deep and irregular surfaces, all the analyzed devices were sufficiently accurate for clinical application. Internal depth-sensing cameras or external infrared structured-light depth-sensing cameras plugged into smartphones/tablets increased the accuracy. These devices are portable and inexpensive but require greater operator experience and patient compliance for the incremented time of acquisition. Stationary stereophotogrammetry is the gold standard for greater accuracy and shorter acquisition time, avoiding motion artifacts.

A Review of Three-Dimensional Facial Asymmetry Analysis Methods

Three-dimensional symmetry and coordination are important factors in facial aesthetics, and analysis of facial asymmetry is the basis for clinical diagnosis, treatment, and doctor–patient communication. With the development of three-dimensional measurement and data analysis technology, facial asymmetry analysis methods are mainly based on facial anatomic landmarks, original-mirror alignment algorithm, facial anthropometric mask, and artificial intelligence. This review summarizes the methods of three-dimensional facial asymmetry analysis, and current research progress in the field. The advantages and limitations of various methods are analyzed and discussed to provide a reference for oral clinical application.

Facial Asymmetry Detected with 3D Methods in Orthodontics: A Systematic Review

Background:

Historically, the development of two-dimensional (2D) imaging techniquesforerun that of three-dimensional (3D) ones. Some 2D methods are still considered valid and effective to diagnose facial asymmetry but 3D techniques may provide more precise and accurate measurements.

Objective:

The aim of this work is to analyze the accuracy and reliability of the imaging techniques available for the diagnosis of facial asymmetry in orthodontics and find the most reliable.

Methods:

A search strategy was implemented using PubMed (National Library of Medicine, NCBI).

Results:

A total of 3201 papers were identified in electronic searches. 90 articles, available in full text, were included in the qualitative synthesis consisting of 8 reviews on the diagnosis of facial asymmetry, 22 in vivo and in vitro studies on 2D methods and 60 in vivo and in vitro studies on 3D methods to quantify the asymmetry.

Conclusion:

2D techniques include X-ray techniques such as posterior-anterior cephalogram, which still represents the first level exam in the diagnosis of facial asymmetry. 3D techniques represent the second level exam in the diagnosis of facial asymmetry. The most current used techniques are CBCT, stereophotogrammetry, laser scanning, 3D optical sensors and contact digitization. The comparison between bilateral parameters (linear distances, angles, areas, volumes and contours) and the calculation of an asymmetry index represent the best choices for clinicians who use CBCT. The creation of a color-coded distance map seems to represent the most accurate, reliable and validated methods for clinicians who use stereophotogrammetry, laser scanning and 3D optical sensors.

A mathematical algorithm of the facial symmetry plane: Application to mandibular deformity 3D facial data

The three-dimensional (3D) symmetry reference plane (SRP) is the premise and basis of 3D facial symmetry analysis. Currently, most methods for extracting the SRP are based on anatomical landmarks measured manually using a digital 3D facial model. However, as different clinicians have varying definitions of landmarks, establishing common methods suitable for different types of facial asymmetry remains challenging. The present study aimed to investigate and evaluate a novel mathematical algorithm based on power function weighted Procrustes analysis (PWPA) to determine 3D facial SRPs for patients with mandibular deviation. From 30 patients with mandibular deviation, 3D facial SRPs were determined using both our PWPA algorithms (two functions) and the traditional PA algorithm (experimental groups). A reference plane, defined by experts, was considered the 'truth plane'. The 'position error' index of mirrored landmarks was created to quantitatively evaluate the difference among the PWPA SRPs and the truth plane, including overall differences and regional differences of the face (upper, middle and lower). The 'angle error' values between the SRPs and the truth plane in the experimental groups were also evaluated in this study. Statistics and measurement analyses were used to comprehensively evaluate the clinical suitability of the PWPA algorithms to construct the SRP. The average angle error values between the PWPA SRPs of the two functions and the truth plane were 1.21 ± 0.65° and 1.18 ± 0.62°, which were smaller than those between the PA SRP and the truth plane. The position error values of mirrored landmarks constructed using the PWPA algorithms for the whole face and for each facial partition were lower than those constructed using the PA algorithm. In conclusion, for patients with mandibular deviation, this novel mathematical algorithm provided a more suitable SRP for their 3D facial model, which achieved a result approaching the true effect of experts.

The Auto-eFACE: Machine Learning-Enhanced Program Yields Automated Facial Palsy Assessment Tool

BACKGROUND

Facial palsy assessment is nonstandardized. Clinician-graded scales are limited by subjectivity and observer bias. Computer-aided grading would be desirable to achieve conformity in facial palsy assessment and to compare the effectiveness of treatments. This research compares the clinician-graded eFACE scale to machine learning-derived automated assessments (auto-eFACE).

METHODS

The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Standard Facial Palsy Dataset was employed. Clinician-graded eFACE assessment was performed on 160 photographs. A Python script was used to automatically generate auto-eFACE scores on the same photographs. eFACE and auto-eFACE scores were compared for normal, flaccidly paralyzed, and synkinetic faces.

RESULTS

Auto-eFACE and eFACE scores differentiated normal faces from those with facial palsy. Auto-eFACE produced significantly lower scores than eFACE for normal faces (93.83 ± 4.37 versus 100.00 ± 1.58; p = 0.01). Review of photographs revealed minor facial asymmetries in normal faces that clinicians tend to disregard. Auto-eFACE reported better facial symmetry in patients with flaccid paralysis (59.96 ± 5.80) and severe synkinesis (62.35 ± 9.35) than clinician-graded eFACE (52.20 ± 3.39 and 54.22 ± 5.35, respectively; p = 0.080 and p = 0.080, respectively); this result trended toward significance.

CONCLUSIONS

Auto-eFACE scores can be obtained automatically using a freely available machine learning-based computer software. Automated scores predicted more asymmetry in normal patients, and less asymmetry in patients with flaccid palsy and synkinesis, compared to clinician grading. Auto-eFACE is a quick and easy-to-use assessment tool that holds promise for standardization of facial palsy outcome measures and may eliminate observer bias seen in clinician-graded scales.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Diagnostic, III.

Minimally Invasive Treatment With a Patient Specific Implant in Reconstruction of Isolated Anterior Wall Fracture of the Frontal Sinus

ABSTRACT

Isolated fractures of the anterior wall of the frontal sinus are most often treated through a coronal approach. Although the coronal approach is a relatively easy procedure, the size of the incision is causing more problems related to patient morbidity and recovery time than smaller approaches. A novel, minimal invasive procedure for reconstruction of the anterior wall fracture of the frontal sinus is presented in this article. An endoscopic assisted approach to camouflage the defect of the anterior wall and restore the contour of the frontal bone with a titanium patient specific implant is described in 2 patients. The aim of this procedure is to evaluate the effect on the operating time, recovery time, length of hospital stay and facial scarring compared to the conventional coronal approach. Postoperative evaluation was performed by superimposing pre and postoperative 3D stereophotographs and computed tomography scans. A distance map demonstrated an accurate reconstruction of the preoperatively planned contour. Postoperative recovery of both patients was quick and uneventful with no complications. The use of endoscopically inserted patient specific implant for contour reconstruction in anterior wall fractures of the frontal sinus seems to offer a predictable and minimal invasive alternative to the conventional approach.

Tomographic similarity scan with a computed modified absolute mandibular midsagittal plane for precise and objective localization of mandibular asymmetry

The application of 3D imaging is at its cusp in craniofacial diagnosis and treatment planning. However, most applications are limited to simple subjective superimposition-based analysis. As the diagnostic accuracy dictates the precision in operability, we propose a novel method that enables objective clinical decision making for patients with mandibular asymmetry. We analyzed cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of 34 patients who underwent surgical correction for mandibular asymmetry using a high-throughput computing algorithm. Radiomic segmentation of quantitative features of surface and volume followed by exploration resulted in identification of a computed modified absolute mandibular midsagittal plane (cmAMP). Tomographic similarity scan (ToSS) curves were generated via bilateral equidistant scanning in an antero-posterior direction with cmAMP as the reference. ToSS comprised of a comprehensive similarity index (SI) score curve and a segment-wise volume curve. The SI score was computed using the Sørensen-Dice similarity coefficient ranging from 0 to 1. The volumetric analysis was represented as the non-overlapping volume (NOV) and overlapping volume (OV) for each segment, with two segmentation lines, at the mental foramen anteriorly and the intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy region posteriorly. Statistical analysis showed strong negative correlation between the NOV and SI scores for the anterior, middle, and total mandible (P < 0.001). Additionally, a significant correlation was observed between the change in the SI scores for anterior (P = 0.044) and middle segments (P < 0.001) to the total mandible when comparing the data before and after the surgery. This work demonstrated the potential of incorporating ToSS curves in surgical simulation software to improve precision in the clinical decision-making process.

Reproducibility of 3D scanning in the periorbital region

The reproducibility of scanning in the periorbital region with 3D technology to enable objective evaluations of surgical treatment in the periorbital region was assessed. Facial 3D-scans of 15 volunteers were captured at different time points with a handheld Artec Space Spider structured light scanner. Two scans were made with a one minute interval and repeated after 1 year; for both a natural head position and with the head in a fixation-device. On assessing the area between the eyelashes and eyebrows, the medians of the average deviations between the various cross-sections of the one minute interval 3D-scans ranged from 0.17 to 0.21 mm at baseline, and from 0.10 to 0.11 mm when the minute-interval scanning was repeated one year later. The systematic differences when scanning in a natural head position and fixated position were comparable. The reproducibility of the 3D processing was excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient > 0.9). The repeated scanning deviations (baseline versus one year data) were well within the accepted clinical threshold of 1 mm. Scanning with a hand-held 3D-scanning device (Artec Space Spider) is a promising tool to assess changes in the periorbital region following surgical treatment since the median deviations are well below the clinically accepted 1 mm measuring error, for both the natural head and fixated positions.

A novel method for 3D face symmetry reference plane based on weighted Procrustes analysis algorithm

BACKGROUND

We aimed to establish a novel method, using the weighted Procrustes analysis (WPA) algorithm, which assigns weight to facial anatomical landmarks, to construct a three-dimensional facial symmetry reference plane (SRP) for mandibular deviation patients.

METHODS

Three-dimensional facial SRPs were independently extracted from 15 mandibular deviation patients using both our WPA algorithm and the standard PA algorithm. A reference plane was defined to serve as the ground truth. To determine whether the WPA SRP or the PA SRP was closer to the ground truth, we measured the position error of mirrored landmarks, the facial asymmetry index (FAI) error, and the angle error for the global face and each facial third partition.

RESULTS

The average angle error between the WPA SRP and the ground truth was 1.66 ± 0.81°, which was smaller than that between the PA SRP and the ground truth. The position error of the mirrored landmarks constructed using the WPA algorithm in the global face (3.64 ± 1.53 mm) and each facial partition was lower than that constructed using the PA algorithm. The average FAI error of the WPA SRP was - 7.77 ± 17.02 mm, which was smaller than that of the PA SRP.

CONCLUSIONS

This novel automatic algorithm, based on weighted anatomic landmarks, can provide a more adaptable SRP than the standard PA algorithm when applied to severe mandibular deviation patients and can better simulate the diagnosis strategies of clinical experts.

The Effect of Orthognathic Surgery on Soft-Tissue Facial Asymmetry: A Longitudinal Three-Dimensional Analysis

In modern orthognathic surgery, the functional results cannot disregard a good aesthetic outcome. In this study, a stereophotogrammetric longitudinal analysis of the symmetry of facial thirds was performed in 18 patients affected by Class III skeletal malocclusion, with clinical asymmetry, treated with a bimaxillary osteotomy. Their 3-dimensional facial images were acquired in the preoperative phase and 6, 12, and 24 months after surgery, and compared to those obtained in a control group of 23 subjects with Class I skeletal occlusion, without clinical asymmetry and no history of traumas or alterations at the maxillo-facial area. Images of the hemi-faces of the subjects were divided into thirds (upper, middle, lower), mirrored and superimposed to their contralateral ones; soft-tissue facial symmetry was obtained as the root mean square distance between the hemi-faces in the three thirds.In patients, no significant differences in facial symmetry (root mean square distance) were found among the study time points (analysis of variance, P > 0.05); the lower facial third was more asymmetric than the upper one (Tukey honestly significant difference P < 0.05). Patients were significantly more asymmetric than the control subjects (Student t, P < 0.05). In conclusion, patients with Class III malocclusion exhibited a higher level of facial asymmetry than control subjects; their asymmetry did not change significantly in the different phases of the surgical and orthodontic treatment and throughout a 24-month follow-up. In skeletal Class III patients, bimaxillary osteotomy did not modify the level of asymmetry in any facial third.

Three-Dimensional Stereophotogrammetry Assessment of Facial Asymmetry in Facial Palsy

Three-dimensional stereophotogrammetry is not much used in assessing facial palsy and a comprehensive understanding of sources of variation in these measurements is lacking. The present study assessed intra- and interobserver reliability of a novel three-dimensional stereophotogrammetry measurement of facial asymmetry and examined sources of variation in these outcomes. Three photographs (rest, closed mouth smile, and maximum smile) were made of 60 participants, 30 facial palsy patients and 30 control subjects. All images were analyzed twice by 2 observers independently, to determine intra- and interobserver reliability. Variance component analysis was performed to investigate sources of variation in the outcomes. Intraobserver reliability was good with intraclass correlation coefficients ranging from 0.715 to 0.999. Interobserver reliability ranged from 0.442 to 0.929. Reliability of the smile image measurements was not clearly different from the rest images. Variation in measurement results was largely due to the status of a participant, facial palsy versus control. When splitting the sample, the facial expression was a major source of variation. Acceptable reliability of the proposed 3D facial asymmetry measurement was found, in facial palsy patients and control subjects. Interobserver reliability was marked less compared to intraobserver reliability. For follow-up data only one observer should assess 3D stereophotogrammetry measurements.

Outcome of facial contour asymmetry after conventional two-dimensional versus computer-assisted three-dimensional planning in cleft orthognathic surgery

Computer-assisted 3D planning has overcome the limitations of conventional 2D planning-guided orthognathic surgery (OGS), but difference for facial contour asymmetry outcome has not been verified to date. This comparative study assessed the facial contour asymmetry outcome of consecutive patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate who underwent 2D planning (n = 37)- or 3D simulation (n = 38)-guided OGS treatment for correction of maxillary hypoplasia and skeletal Class III malocclusion between 2010 and 2018. Normal age-, gender-, and ethnicity-matched individuals (n = 60) were enrolled for comparative analyses. 2D (n = 60, with 30 images for each group) and 3D (n = 43, with 18 and 25 images for 2D planning and 3D simulation groups, respectively) photogrammetric-based facial contour asymmetry-related measurements were collected from patients and normal individuals. The facial asymmetry was further verified by using subjective perception of a panel composed of 6 blinded raters. On average, the facial contour asymmetry was significantly (all p < 0.05) reduced after 3D virtual surgery planning for all tested parameters, with no significant differences between post-OGS 3D simulation-related values and normal individuals. No significant differences were observed for pre- and post-OGS values in conventional 2D planning-based treatment, with significant (all p < 0.05) differences for all normal individuals-related comparisons. This study suggests that 3D planning presents superior facial contour asymmetry outcome than 2D planning.

Associations Between Genetic Data and Quantitative Assessment of Normal Facial Asymmetry

Human facial asymmetry is due to a complex interaction of genetic and environmental factors. To identify genetic influences on facial asymmetry, we developed a method for automated scoring that summarizes local morphology features and their spatial distribution. A genome-wide association study using asymmetry scores from two local symmetry features was conducted and significant genetic associations were identified for one asymmetry feature, including genes thought to play a role in craniofacial disorders and development: NFATC1, SOX5, NBAS, and TCF7L1. These results provide evidence that normal variation in facial asymmetry may be impacted by common genetic variants and further motivate the development of automated summaries of complex phenotypes.

Outcome Tracking in Facial Palsy

Outcome tracking in facial palsy is multimodal, consisting of patient-reported outcome measures, clinician-graded scoring systems, objective assessment tools, and novel tools for layperson and spontaneity assessment. Patient-reported outcome measures are critical to understanding burden of disease in facial palsy and effects of interventions from the patient perspective. Clinician-graded scoring systems are inherently subjective and no 1 single system satisfies all needs. Objective assessment tools quantify facial movements but can be laborious. Recent advances in facial recognition technology have enabled automated facial measurements. Novel assessment tools analyze attributes such as spontaneous smile, emotional expressivity, disfigurement, and attractiveness as determined by laypersons.

Longitudinal 3D Assessment of Facial Asymmetry in Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate

OBJECTIVE

Longitudinal evaluation of asymmetry of the surgically managed unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) to assess the impact of facial growth on facial appearance.

DESIGN

Prospective study.

SETTING

Glasgow Dental Hospital and School, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom.

PATIENTS

Fifteen UCLP infants.

METHOD

The 3-D facial images were captured before surgery, 4 months after surgery, and at 4-year follow-up using stereophotogrammetry. A generic mesh which is a mathematical facial mask that consists of thousands of points (vertices) was conformed on the generated 3-D images. Using Procustean analysis, an average facial mesh was obtained for each age-group. A mirror image of each average mesh was mathematically obtained for the analysis of facial dysmorphology. Facial asymmetry was assessed by measuring the distances between the corresponding vertices of the original and the mirror copy of the conformed meshes, and this was displayed in color-coded map.

RESULTS

There was a clear improvement in the facial asymmetry following the primary repair of cleft lip. Residual asymmetry was detected around the nasolabial region. The nasolabial region was the most asymmetrical region of the face; the philtrum, columella, and the vermillion border of the upper lip showed the maximum asymmetry which was more than 5 mm. Facial growth accentuated the underlying facial asymmetry in 3 directions; the philtrum of the upper lip was deviated toward the scar tissue on the cleft side. The asymmetry of the nose was significantly worse at 4-year follow-up ( P < .05).

CONCLUSION

The residual asymmetry following the surgical repair of UCLP was more pronounced at 4 years following surgery. The conformed facial mesh provided a reliable and innovative tool for the comprehensive analysis of facial morphology in UCLP. The study highlights the need of refining the primary repair of the cleft and the potential necessity for further corrective surgery.

Comparison of two- and three-dimensional assessment methods of nasolabial appearance in cleft lip and palate patients: Do the assessment methods measure the same outcome?

OBJECTIVE

For the assessment of the nasolabial appearance in cleft patients, a widely accepted, reliable scoring system is not available. In this study four different methods of assessment are compared, including 2D and 3D asymmetry and aesthetic assessments.

METHODS

The data and ratings from an earlier study using the Asher-McDade aesthetic index on 3D photographs and the outcomes of 3D facial distance mapping were compared to a 2D aesthetic assessment, the Cleft Aesthetic Rating Scale, and to SymNose, a computerized 2D asymmetry assessment technique. The reliability and correlation between the four assessment techniques were tested using a sample of 79 patients.

RESULTS

The 3D asymmetry assessment had the highest reliability and could be performed by just one observer (Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC): 0.99). The 2D asymmetry assessment of the nose was highly reliable when performed by just one observer (ICC: 0.89). However, for the 2D asymmetry assessment of the lip more observers were needed. For the 2D aesthetic assessments 3 observers were needed. The 3D aesthetic assessment had the lowest single-observer reliability (ICC: 0.38-0.56) of all four techniques. The agreement between the different assessment methods is poor to very poor. The highest correlation (R: 0.48) was found between 2D and 3D aesthetic assessments. Remarkably, the lowest correlations were found between 2D and 3D asymmetry assessments (0.08-0.17).

CONCLUSION

Different assessment methods are not in agreement and seem to measure different nasolabial aspects. More research is needed to establish exactly what each assessment technique measures and which measurements or outcomes are relevant for the patients.