3dMDnews

Advancing Healthcare through 3-D Surface Imaging

October 2001

Volume I, Issue 2

NEWSLETTER CONTENTS

· VOGUE Magazine Article Sept. 2001 issue… (See below to read more)

· Medical Research Study Launched Focusing on the Facial Effects of Distraction Osteogenesis Using Geometric Morphometrics … (See below to read more)

· 3-D Surface Imaging In Practice … (See below to read more)

· Newsletter Sponsor – 3dMD, LLC… (See below to read more)

Reprinted from VOGUE Magazine (September 2001 issue)

The Big Picture – Plastic Surgery’s New Imaging Tool In this age of lasers and biotech cures, it's baffling that reconstructive breast surgery is more art than science, at least when it comes to how much implant to add and how much tissue to take away. Standard procedure these days is to guesstimate by using pictures or stuffing the bra with implants of varying sizes. But that may change as 3dMD makes its way into more doctors' offices in the months to come. Stand in front of this arched digital camera, and it will take three-dimensional photos in a split second and transmit them to the computer. The patient and doctor can then virtually add to and subtract from the image until both are satisfied. Afterward, 3dMD gives a volumetric reading of the resulting change--thereby offering the patient a better idea of what to expect and the doctor more exact dimensions to work with. Other possible applications coming up in the near future? Rhinoplasty and bra design. --J.C.

Medical Research Study Launched Focusing on the Facial Effects of Distraction Osteogenesis Using Geometric Morphometrics

Dr. Dave Singh recently joined the faculty of the University of Puerto Rico to work with the Director of Orthodontic Graduate Program, Dr. Pedro Santiago, and Research Consultant, Dr. Rene Dietrich. The team is establishing the Center for Craniofacial Disorders, University of Puerto Rico, as a center of excellence for the management of craniofacial disorders in the Caribbean. The unit fosters strong links with the US, in particular, the Rush Craniofacial Center in Chicago.

Currently, the team is focused on the deficiency of information on the impact of skeletal procedures on post-surgical soft tissue response. Using a multi-disciplinary approach, the team is conducting a research study to assess craniofacial form-change after distraction osteogenesis, using advanced geometric morphometry. To be more specific, the team is undertaking mathematical modeling during normal growth and development, and identifying features associated with dysmorphic growth. The team believes clinically-accurate 3-D digital surface acquisition technology will be instrumental in this study.

After distraction osteogenesis composite 3-D modeling will localize and quantify changes in facial form. By also conducting asymmetry studies, the team will be able to determine how the post distraction facial shape differs from a normal average face.

Ultimately, this study will help in the elucidation of:

· developmental morphogenesis and gene-environmental interactions in terms of postnatal growth modification

· the likely success of interventions following early diagnosis, which could minimize the degree of surgical intervention required

Dr. Dave Singh joined the University of Puerto Rico, School of Medicine, as an Associate Professor with a joint appointment in the School of Dentistry, Department of Orthodontics. With a dental background and doctorates in both craniofacial development and orthodontic research, Dr. Singh is an important addition to the Center for Craniofacial Disorders, University of Puerto Rico.

3-D Surface Imaging in Practice

The Centre, PC has been imaging its patients with the 3dMDtorso System now for several months. During that time, 3-D surface imaging has become a critical part of our pre-surgical decision making process on both the cosmetic and the reconstructive sides of the practice.

The 3dMDtorso System’s measurement tools enable us to obtain vital information such as surface measurement and breast volume, which helps us more accurately determine the appropriate implant size and better predict surgical outcomes.

For our reconstructive patients, the 3dMDtorso System allows us to more accurately calculate symmetry with the opposite breast.

For both our cosmetic and reconstructive patients, the 3dMDtorso System’s sculpting tool has enabled us during the consultation to sit down and easily demonstrate what is possible for our patients. By combining our experience and skill with the ability to visually educate our patients in a 3-D environment, we believe we have the extra edge to move the consultation forward with the procedure.

Building trust and confidence with patients has been one of the keys to The Centre, P.C.’s success. As 3-D surface imaging continues to integrate into our practice, its boundaries seem limitless.

Ronald K. Downs, M.D., F.A.C.S. and Patrick J. Viscardi, M.D.

The Centre, P.C. (www.thecentrepc.com)

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