Procuste Documentation

Procuste software performs a cephalometric analysis that is based on the same principles as the analysis of Lucien de Coster, Arne Björk or Viken Sassouni. The method consists in superimposing a transparency baring a reference grid or a line drawing on the patient's profile. Malocclusions or facial deformities can then be spotted where patient’s morphology appears significantly different from the reference’s profile.

The main difficulties of the cephalometric analysis rely in:

1. Choosing the right reference profile
2. Adjusting the size of the case to the size of the reference
3. Considering the endless variations in proportions of the dento facial structures

Procuste cephalometry offers the advantage of simple solutions to resolve this set of problems.

Statistical approach of the Procrustes method allows to easily determine the reference profile applicable to each case.

The GLS*(Generalized Least Square) superimposition uses directly the Cartesian coordinates of all anatomical landmarks, to perform a least square fit between the case and the reference. After superimposition, the sum of differences between corresponding landmarks is minimal. Diagnosis and choice of treatment are achieved without having to use Angular and metric values at all.

The Procuste cephalometry can also be used to superimpose pre treatment and post treatment headfilms. This will help you highlight and understand the treatment effects on a single case. Using the same approach with samples of treated cases allows you to perform modelling and simulation of treatments.