Introduction
The introduction of many advances as well as new simplified softwares in the field of basic scientific research within the field of computer assisted craniofacial surgery, had enabled the surgeons to introduce features of these techniques into routine clinical practice (2, 3). In order to simulate complex craniosynostosis surgery with the aid of a computer, various diagnostic image data should be included; computer tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This type of data should be arranged in relation to each other, thus enabling a relevant switching between these various modalities as well as the viewing of superimposed results (6). Segmentation techniques of the calvarium as well as three dimensional reconstruction modules are usually a cornerstone for successful simulation planning (10). For that the author tried to develop ergonomic planning techniques, thus allowing for a precise and fast entry of the planned surgical procedure.
The aim of operation planning in oral and maxillofacial surgery is the optimization of the surgical result with regard to function and aesthetic aspects. However, for the distraction surgery of the cranium, the accurate distance and vectors of distraction can be aim of simulation surgery.
Planning and Simulation
The existence of suitable image data in the form of two- and three-dimensional data sets is critical for successful preoperative planning. The CT offers the advantages of a precise reproducible local presentation as well as the high contrast presentation of osseous structures. The CT scans were obtained using the Siemens TM CT scanner (Germany; Somatom Sensation 64, matrix size 512×512, Facial 1/1 mm pac). The process of simulation planning started with obtaining DICOM files of CT scan that can be easily utilized through the software. The Author had chosen the Analyze Direct AVW™ (Mayo Clinic, USA) software for the preparation of the simulation planning. All CT scans were adjusted to Frankfort horizontal plane (FHP) prior to segmentation process using the coordinate system as showing in Fig. 1 and 4. The segmentation process was done using the volume render module of the software. The simulation plan was based on standard brain volume as well as the patient’s cephalic index. The critical end point during the simulation plan is to achieve adequate cephalic index that able to allow improvement of the outcome.
Fig. 1.Preoperative 3D CT scan of 9 months old patient with unilambdoid craniosynostosis. There is an apparent plagiocephaly with deviation of the skull axis towards the unaffected side.
For each patient, either two or three different simulation plans were made according to the quadrant based distraction osteogensis procedures, as showing in Fig. 2, 3, 5 and 6. Virtual osteotomies were accomplished with creation of multiple bone segments that could be moved separately in the all three dimensions (X, Y and Z). For a better graphic quality, the individual bone segments are differentiated through the use of different colors. After determination of the optimal movement distance on the computer screen for each segment as well as the vector of distraction, the final cephalic index was calculated.
Fig. 2.1st surgical plan of simulation for the Fig. 1 unilambdoid patient.
Fig. 3.2nd surgical plan of simulation for the Fig. 1 unilambdoid patient.
Fig. 4.Preoperative 3D CT scan of 11 months old patient with Crouzon syndrome.
Fig. 5.1st surgical plan of simulation for the Fig. 4 Crouzon’s syndrome patient.
Fig. 6.2nd surgical plan of simulation for the Fig. 4 Crouzon’s syndrome patient.
Fig. 7.Immediate post-operative 3D CT scan of the case of Crouzon syndrome after following the 2nd plan of simulation surgery.
Fig. 8.Anterior, Top and posterior view of skull of 11 months old patient with unilambdoid synostoses demonstrating the mid line and two lateral lines extended parallel to the mid line and just lateral to the lateral orbital wall.
Generally, the aim of the simulation or even the surgery itself was to reach the ideal shape of the head. Choice of the most appropriate surgical plan was done by the surgeon according to patient’s skull shape, intraoperatively.
During the distraction process, multiple skull X-rays were obtained to follow up the distraction process as well as the distraction vector. And by the end of distraction, 3D CT scan was obtained for the patients and was compared to the initial simulation plan. Also the distance and the direction of distraction was compared to that of the simulation plan, respectively. As a results, the distance was almost matched to that of the simulation plan ,however the vectors were shown some differences.
Another important data that the simulation planning can provide the lateral distances from the mid line in severe plagiocephalic deformity, for the determination of the discrepancy between both sides.
Discussion
Craniosynostosis is defined as premature closure of the sutures of the skull, resulting in cranial deformity. In 1852, Virchow postulated that premature closure of a cranial suture decreased growth perpendicular to the suture and resulted in an increase in skull growth in the direction of the suture (12). Since then, we have learned much about premature suture closure, but there is still much that is unclear.
Craniosynostosis represents a great challenge for all craniofacial surgeons. The unique individual presentation makes every patient’s plans of the management difficult even in the same type of synostosis.
Different surgical techniques had been described for surgical correction of craniosynostosis ranging from the simpler strip craniotomy; “sutusrectomy” (4, 8) to more extensive total cranial vault remodeling (9, 11).
The development of new software that are capable of doing the virtual cutting and shifting of bone parts nowadays allows a patient-specific simulation of complex bone movements either during distraction osteogensis or even during vault remodeling, and anticipating the prior to real surgery (7, 11).
The advantage of a preoperative simulation planning for craniosynostosis patients is especially apparent in cases where a comparison can be made during surgery, and this is much more apparent in plagiocephalic deformity (5).
The simulation of the surgical outcome, i.e. the three-dimensional graphic representation of the various osteotomies on the computer, can support the surgeon intra-operatively. The preoperative 3D-visualization of the skull on the computer facilitates the assessment of the outcome of surgery and permits discussions with colleagues about the benefits as well as the expected morbidities for each management plans, separately. It will support the surgeon to finalize the choice of operation plan that is optimal for each individual patient.
Despite the reliability of those plans, the main drawback of simulation planning is that those softwares does not consider soft tissue resistance during the real process of distraction osteogensis, since both the soft tissues as well as the bone resist distraction. However, it is difficult to estimate boht factors by the current technology. Another important factor is that the vector of distraction can be different from simulation in the real distraction process.
Automated operation planning as well as the simulation process, both can impact the real surgical results, and the realization of these technology will be come true in the near future. The goal of simulation surgery is to make the best result in real surgery, with involving the short operation, and less surgical morbidity. However, many trials and technologies are under development and expected that will be come true in near future.
Conclusion
Preoperative stimulation planning for craniosynostosis patient is very valuable tool in the surgical management of craniosynostosis patients.
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