Planning for orthognathic surgery--art or science?

Computerization and sophisticated radiographic and nonradiographic technology in orthodontics and orthognathic surgery have contributed immensely to the stockpile of knowledge. Yet, in spite of the tremendous technological and scientific advances in these areas, the question of whether treatment planning for orthognathic surgery is an art or a science continues to loom in the minds of clinicians. All too frequently, "scientific" observations do not corroborate clinical findings. The extent to which clinicians are able to rely on current technology is directly dependent on their understanding of its shortcomings. This article examines the limitations of modern technology in clinical diagnosis.