An MRI-only Three-dimensional Cephalometry Protocol based on the Integrated and Modular Architecture of the Human Head

Abstract

Background:: Currently, three-dimensional cephalometry measurements are mainly based on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), which has limitations of ionizing radiation, lack of soft tissue information, and lack of standardization of median sagittal plane establishment. Objectives:: This study investigated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-only based 3D cephalometry measurement based on the integrated and modular characteristics of the human head. Methods:: Double U-Net CycleGAN was used for CT image synthesis from MRI. This method enabled the synthesis of a CT-like image from MRI and measurements were made using 3D slicer registration and fusion. Results:: A protocol for generating and optimizing MRI-based synthetic CT was described and found to meet precision requirements of 3D head measurement using MRI midline positioning methods reported in neuroscience to establish the median sagittal plane. An MRI-only reference frame and coordinate system were established enabling an MRI-only cephalometric analysis protocol that combined the dual advantages of soft and hard tissue display. The protocol was devised using data from a single volunteer and validation data from a larger sample remains to be collected. Conclusion:: The reported method provided a new protocol for MRI-only cephalometric analysis of craniofacial growth and development, malformation occurrence, treatment planning and outcomes.