3D computed-assisted surgery in orthodontic treatment of impacted canines in palatal position

An original method of mini-invasive oral surgery based on 3D images from computed tomography is presented. Fourteen patients referred for treatment of unerupted canine in palatal location underwent a multislice CT scan (MSCT). The patient data were analyzed with an original 3D imaging software based on <<region growing>> method. The 3D images were then segmented in order to separate bone teeth and mucosae. The optimal position of the expected bracket attachment was calculated and reported on the 3D images of the canine to be treated. A virtual geometric construction of this optimal point was determined using neighboring teeth and then transposed to the patient's teeth, allowing then a limited surgical incision when sticking the bracket on the impacted canine. For all treated patients, the orthodontic treatment was facilitated by this procedure which allowed a more accurate and more limited surgical incision. (C) 2004 CARS and Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.