Challenges for 3D Imaging for Craniofacial Applications

Computed tomography invented in the early 1970s has been used for many applications in three-dimensional (3D) diagnostic imaging for craniofacial clinical practice and research. Three-dimensional image analysis provides more detailed and good-quality data compared to traditional two-dimensional radiography. Craniofacial surgery requires the reconstruction of damaged bone and tissue to improve the appearance of disfigured areas of the face and head. There arise some challenges while performing 3D reconstruction in craniofacial applications. These challenges or limitations cannot be completely removed but should be minimized to have a precise reconstructed model. This chapter provides various categories of 3D imaging challenges. To help the researchers in this domain, it also lists some of the 3D datasets available online related to craniofacial imaging, along with CBCT/CT scanners and software for image analysis.