Progression of maxillofacial squamous cell carcinoma evaluated using computer graphics with spiral computed tomography.

This report describes the appearance of maxillofacial squamous cell carcinoma in multiplanar (MPR) and three-dimensional (3D) images reconstructed from spiral CT using computer graphics and the importance of the computer software tools in permitting better visualization of the lesion. Two oral and maxillofacial radiologists and one neuroradiologist analysed the images. The usefulness of interactive reconstruction in the diagnosis, surgical planning and treatment evaluation, especially in the localization of the extent of these maxillofacial tumors, was demonstrated. Spiral CT-based computer graphics for displaying MPR and 3D images are an important adjunct in the evaluation of squamous cell carcinoma.