Three dimensional evaluation of facial asymmetry after mandibular reconstruction: validation of a new method using stereophotogrammetry

The scientific literature is sparse on reports that evaluate facial asymmetry after mandibular reconstructive surgery objectively. The aim of this study is to introduce and validate a new method, using three dimensional (3D) stereophotogrammetry, that quantifies soft-tissue facial asymmetry in patients who have undergone mandibular reconstruction. To validate the new method, two observers applied the method on 3D photographs of five patients and five controls. An inter-observer difference of 0.04 mm (?0.08 to 0.17) was found with a measurement error of 0.13 mm. 15 3D photographs of the mandibular reconstructed patients were compared with 24 3D photographs of healthy controls. A significant difference (1.19 mm) in asymmetry was found between patients and controls. It is concluded that this new measuring method is a valid, fast and clinically applicable technique to quantify soft-tissue facial asymmetry. It is concluded that facial symmetry in patients is not restored to the level of the control group with the mandibular reconstruction method applied.     

Value of serum procalcitonin for the diagnosis of bacterial septic arthritis in daily practice in rheumatology

Clinical Rheumatology - Septic arthritis is a diagnostic and therapeutic emergency because of a high morbidity and mortality. Nevertheless, the etiologic diagnosis is often difficult. The aim of...     

Fehlbildungen des weiblichen Genitale

Female congenital malformations are anomalies of the outer and inner genital organs due to different reasons. They usually show no symptoms during childhood and become mostly symptomatic after the initiation of menstrual bleeding, sexual activity or the desire to have children and can cause acyesis or infertility. Due to their rareness, wide variability and complexity female congenital malformations essentially need an accurate diagnostic investigation, careful guidance, optimal treatment as well as follow-up care at a specialized center with interdisciplinary care to avoid misdiagnosis and wrong or delayed treatment.