Mandible shape modeling using the second eigenfunction of the Laplace-Beltrami operator

Abstract

The second Laplace-Beltrami eigenfunction provides an intrinsic geometric way of establishing natural coordinates for elongated 3D anatomical structures obtained from medical images. The approach is used to establish the <i>centerline</i> of the human mandible from CT and provides automated anatomical landmarks across subjects. These landmarks are then used to quantify the growth pattern of the mandible between ages 0 and 20.