Registration of 3D photographs with spiral CT images for soft tissue simulation in Maxillofacial surgery

Abstract

Prediction of the facial outcome after maxillofacial surgery is not only of major interest for surgeons but also for patients. A mirror-like image of the expected surgical outcome gives important information for the patient and provides the surgeon with a good communication tool. This paper presents a method for registration of 3D photographs with 3D CT images, to provide the patient with a realistic view of the natural complexion of the simulated postoperative outcome of his/her face. A rigid ICP-based registration algorithm, followed by a non-rigid transformation produces a close match between the two surfaces.