Protocol for capturing 3D facial meshes for rhinoseptoplasty planning

Abstract

Objectives:

To present and execute a protocol for the capture of 3D facial images using photogrammetry through the open access software Blender and its add-on OrtogOnBlender (OOB) and to evaluate the compatibility of the 3D meshes generated with Computed tomography (CT) of the sinuses.

Methods:

Individuals > 18 years old, candidates for Rhinoseptoplasty in a tertiary hospital, were submitted to a photographic session to perform the standardized protocol. In the session, divided into 3 phases, sequential photos were taken for processing the photogrammetry in the OOB and producing 3D meshes of the face. The photogrammetry reconstructions were compared with the reference mesh of the soft tissue surface of the Sinus CT scan to assess compatibility between them.

Results:

21 patients were included, 67% female. 3 photogrammetry meshes and 1 CT reference mesh were generated, which demonstrated matching compatibility, as most of the mean distances between cloud points were <1.48mm. Phase 3 of the session with the highest number of photos (54.36 ± 15.05) generated the most satisfactory mesh with the best resolution.

Conclusions:

The proposed protocol is reproducible and feasible in clinical practice, generated satisfactory 3D meshes of the face, being a potential tool for surgical planning and comparison of results. For the implementation of photogrammetry for use in 3D anthropometry, it is necessary to validate this method.

Level of evidence:

3.

OCEBM Levels of Evidence Working Group.¹ The Oxford 2011 Levels of Evidence. Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine. http://www.cebm.net/index.aspx?o=5653

Keywords
Rhinoplasty; Photogrammetry; Three-dimensional image

Highlights

3D Anthropometry is an effective and safe method for measuring facial distances.

Photogrammetry is performed quickly and non-invasively.

Photogrammetry allows measurements, surgical simulation, and prediction of results.

Photogrammetry by OrtogOnBlender (OOB) is affordable and cost-effective.

OOB produces satisfactory meshes for Rhinoplasty planning.