Hollywood helps scientists achieve 3D face transplant

Scientists believe 3D modeling techniques used for Hollywood blockbusters could be used for breakthrough treatment of serious facial injuries.

Understanding the complex defects and damage present in serious facial injuries is critical to surgery and face transplantation.

University of Pittsburgh researchers have successfully used sophisticated 3D computer modeling to recreate patient head and neck anatomy.

The technique enabled them to better assess structures, contours and tissue structures present in a patients face.

Lead researcher Darren Smith explained: "In assessing eligibility for this procedure, it is critical to understand whether the patient has enough blood vessels and bone structure to support new facial tissue.

"This 3D modeling helps us customise the procedure to the patient's individual anatomy so that the donor tissue will fit."

Recent research carried out at the University of Navarra Hospital indicated that brain function plays a crucial role in recovery from facial paralysis, which can often occur following muscular or nervous transposition.

Posted by Fiona Griffiths