Evaluating cranial landmarks for yaw orientation in natural head position: a 3D study

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the symmetry of various cranial anthropometric points used as references for yaw orientation in the natural head position (NHP), relative to the mid-sagittal plane. Materials and methods: A prospective analysis using tomography data from 55 patients was conducted. Radiopaque markers, placed on patients in NHP, facilitated head position recording in three planes, with subsequent digital transfer for orientation analysis. Symmetry of eight points (zygomaxillare, zygion, ectoconchion, frontozygomatic suture, stephanion, porion, mastoidale, condylion laterale) was measured against the mid-sagittal plane. Results: Significant asymmetry was observed in the stephanion, frontozygomatic suture, and ectoconchion points (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found in the symmetry of other points (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Findings suggest that stephanion, frontozygomatic suture, and ectoconchion are unreliable for yaw orientation in NHP. Other points, combined with clinical measurements, may offer better reliability.