Three-dimensional CT reformation in children

Abstract

Three-dimensional computed tomographic (CT) reformation has proven useful in the evaluation of congenital malformations of the brain as well as in the surgical approach and postoperative assessment of craniofacial anomalies in children. This technique was performed on 41 patients, of whom eight are presented. The congenital anomalies of semilobar holoprosencephaly and colpocephaly are described. Six representative cases of craniofacial anomalies with pre- and postoperative examinations include Crouzon syndrome, orbital fibrous dysplasia, frontonasal encephalocele, cranial involvement from neurofibromatosis, Treacher-Collins syndrome, and a Tessier III facial cleft. Addition of the dimension of depth provides a view heretofore not obtainable by standard imaging techniques and allows more accurate diagnosis as well as a more specific approach to surgical planning and follow-up.