Accessible and informative sectioned images and surface models of the maxillofacial area for orthognathic surgery.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to describe sectioned images and stereoscopic anatomic models of the maxillofacial area by using Visible Korean which are beneficial for medical education and clinical training in the field of orthognathic surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Serially sectioned images of the maxillofacial area of a cadaver were created. Significant structures in the sectioned images were outlined and stacked to build surface models.

RESULTS: Browsing software (95.1 MB) and portable document format (PDF) file (142 MB) that were constructed are freely downloadable from our website (http://anatomy.co.kr). In the browsing software, the names of structures associated with malocclusion and orthognathic surgery could be viewed on the sectioned images. In the PDF file, surface models and stereoscopic maxillofacial structures were displayed in real-time.

CONCLUSIONS: The state-of-the-art sectioned images, outlined images, and surface models that were arranged and systematised in this study, may help students and trainees investigate the anatomy of the maxillofacial area for orthognathic surgery.