A stereophotogrammetric technique for the quantification of tissue expansion procedures in plastic surgery

Abstract

Tissue expansion is now commonly used in plastic surgery to develop skin and subcutaneous tissue, and so provide ample tissue for reconstruction purposes. One area where it is found to be particularly valuable is in breast reconstruction since the procedure provides no defects and minimal scars. However, it is extremely difficult to accurately estimate the final reconstructed breast volumes in order to match the normal breast.

A stereophotogrammetric technique using the projected grid system has been successful in being able to quantify the amount of tissue expansion required.