Abstract
Purpose: Anthropometry can be divided into two methods, direct anthropometry and indirect anthropometry. The most ideal and accurate method is a direct anthropometry. However, it is difficult to measure in the case of children because of poor cooperation, and it lacks re-productivity. Cast model has advantages of three dimensional featuring, inexpensive and easy fabrication. This study is conducted to find out an accuracy of indirect anthropometry on cast model by comparing it with direct anthropometry. Methods: Total 48 cleft lip nasal deformity patients (unilateral, 40; bilateral, 8) were included in this study. Cast models were made before surgery under general anesthesia with alginate impression material and model plaster. Eleven linear measurements among 7 landmarks were taken as direct anthropometry before surgery with Castroviejo spreading caliper. At the same time, indirect anthropometry on cast model was done at the same linear distances as well. Results: Of the total 11 linear measurements, both ala lengths, both columella lengths, nose width, projective distance between facial insertion points of the ala, projective distance between the alar base points, right nostril floor width, and columella width were statistically correlated between indirect anthropometry on cast model and direct anthropometry. However, the nasal tip protrusion and the left nostril floor width were not statistically correlated. Conclusion: Accuracy of indirect anthropometry on cast model can be influenced by cast model fabrication techniques and correct identification of landmarks. Nasal tip protrusion could be reduced by compression of the nasal tip in the process of cast model fabrication and nostril floor width can be varied by muscle relaxation of anesthetics and incorrect identification of subalare in cleft lip nasal deformity. If sufficient care is taken to make cast model and to define landmarks exactly, indirect anthropometry on cast model can be a reliable method as direct anthropometry.
