Cephalometri

Cephalometri (commonly called cephalometry) is the measurement and analysis of the head, usually based on radiographic images, to assess craniofacial relationships. It combines standardized imaging, identification of anatomical landmarks, and quantitative measurements (linear distances and angles) to describe skeletal and soft-tissue morphology.

The technique was developed in the early 20th century and was adopted into clinical practice for orthodontics and craniofacial surgery. Standard projections include lateral and frontal cephalograms; modern practice also uses cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) for three-dimensional analysis. A cephalostat or head-holder is used to stabilize and align the subject for reproducible images.

Common landmarks include sella, nasion, orbitale, porion, gonion, pogonion and menton, and typical measurements include SNA, SNB and ANB angles that help evaluate jaw relationships. Applications cover orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning, growth assessment, evaluation of surgical outcomes, anthropological research and forensic identification.

Advantages of cephalometry include standardized, reproducible documentation of craniofacial form and widely established reference norms. Limitations include projectional distortion in two-dimensional images, sensitivity to head positioning, interobserver variability in landmark identification and exposure to ionizing radiation. Contemporary practice emphasizes digital analysis, three-dimensional imaging for complex cases and radiation-minimizing protocols consistent with ALARA principles.