Computer morphometrics in craniofacial biology.

The quantification, analysis, prediction and simulation of the growth of the craniofacial complex is discussed in the context of a two-dimensional coordinate model of craniofacial morphology. Data accumulated from lateral X-ray films (cephalograms) are used, in conjunction with the model, to describe and analyze craniofacial growth; to predict the future size of craniofacial structures, the future relationships between these structures, the timing of certain structural changes, the velocity and direction of future growth ; and to simulate normal, aberrant and constrained growth patterns.