Utility of a Novel 3D Imaging Mobile Application in the Management of Craniosynostosis

Introduction: Craniosynostosis is a developmental craniofacial anomaly that results from the premature fusion of one or more cranial sutures. It is typically treated with surgical intervention to correct abnormal head shape. However, there is currently no standard method for quantitatively evaluating treatment effectiveness. A three-dimensional mobile imaging application presents a widely accessible method of monitoring changes in head shape over time. Here, we aim to assess the utility of this app in the case of a 22-month-old with mild metopic craniosynostosis, who underwent surgery to shave down the metopic ridge, and a 21-month-old with trigonocephaly, who underwent cranial vault remodeling.

Methods: Using the imaging app, photos were taken of the patients’ heads while they were anesthetized. For the metopic ridge shaving, one scan was taken pre-operatively and another post-operatively. For the craniofacial reconstruction, five scans were taken, one before the first incision, three intraoperatively at each stage of the surgery, and one after suture closure. Three-dimensional models were generated from these scans, then compared qualitatively through visualization of the skull contour and quantitatively using a depth analysis feature of the app.

Results: The app was successfully implemented to capture accurate reconstructions of the patients’ heads during the surgery and obtain a quantitative measurement of the change in skull shape. The metopic ridge reduction was easily visualized and quantified from the three-dimensional models.

Conclusion : The imaging app provides an efficient and inexpensive method of evaluating treatment effectiveness by generating three-dimensional models and quantitative measurements of head shape. Not only can the before and after images inform the current family about the changes made during surgery, but they can show future families what to expect when they are considering treatment options to help guide decision-making. This technology may enhance the clinical management of craniosynostosis as well as other craniofacial abnormalities.