cephalometry

Scientific measurements, often taken by means of radiographic imaging, of the head in the living, or of the cadaver head with soft tissues in place, utilizing specific reference points and sufficient standardization to allow reproducible results. Commonly used to document age based on cephalic growth (as in obstetric ultrasonography) or to plan or measure progress in cephalic remodeling (as in orthodontics). SEE ALSO: craniometry, cephalometrics. [cephalo- + G. metron, measure]

- ultrasonic c. measurement of the fetal head by ultrasound.

* * *

ceph·a·lom·e·try .sef-ə-'läm-ə-trē n, pl -tries the science of measuring the head in living individuals (as to assess craniofacial growth and development)

ceph·a·lo·met·ric -lō-'me-trik adj

* * *

n.

the study of facial growth by examination of standardized lateral radiographs of the head. It is used mainly for diagnosis in orthodontics.

* * *

ceph·a·lom·e·try (sef″ə-lomґə-tre) scientific measurement of the dimensions of the head. In dentistry, certain combinations of linear and angular measurements developed from tracing the oriented lateral and frontal radiographic head film are used to assess craniofacial growth and development on a longitudinal basis and to determine the nature of orthodontic treatment response.