Cephalometric Analysis
Pronunciation: sef-a-loh-MET-rik
A standardized radiographic measurement technique applied to a lateral skull radiograph (cephalogram) to assess skeletal, dental, and soft-tissue relationships for orthodontic and surgical planning.
Full Definition
Cephalometric analysis involves the identification of specific anatomical landmarks on a lateral cephalogram and the measurement of linear distances and angular relationships between them. Commonly used analyses include Steiner, Downs, Ricketts, and Eastman, each employing defined reference planes (e.g., SN plane, Frankfort horizontal) and norms. The output — a cephalometric tracing or digital overlay — is integral to orthodontic diagnosis, orthognathic surgery planning, and growth studies. Editors working on orthodontic case reports or research articles must confirm that angular measurements are consistently presented in degrees (°) and linear measurements in millimetres.
Usage
Usage note: Specify which analysis system (Steiner, Eastman, etc.) is being used when editing case reports; angular values take °, linear values take mm.
In Context
- "Cephalometric analysis revealed a skeletal Class III pattern with a low Frankfort-mandibular plane angle." — Orthodontic case study
- "The Eastman cephalometric analysis confirmed ANB of −2°, supporting the diagnosis of mandibular prognathism." — Orthognathic surgery planning document