Computed Tomography-Based Estimation of Facial Soft-Tissue Thickness for Forensic Facial Reconstruction among Manipuri Population.

Nongmeikapam, Dhimi; Rani, Smitha; Kumareswar, Swathi; Muralidhar, Nitin V.; Abhinandithe, K. Stavelin; Divyashree, N.

Background: An unidentified body can arise in any form varying from a well-preserved corpse to skeletal remains or charred remains. When all the parameters for identification are lost, a reconstructed face can help in narrowing down the search. The morphometric method of facial reconstruction uses tables of average facial soft-tissue thickness (FSTT) data to guide the reconstruction. To date, no statistics on FSTT have been analyzed in the Manipuri population. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to estimate and develop an FSTT data set of the Manipuri population using computed tomography (CT) scans for forensic facial reconstruction. Materials and Methods: CT scans of the head were collected for 50 males and 50 females and measurement of FSTT in 25 landmarks of the skull was estimated. Descriptive statistics were applied and 10 samples were selected randomly to check the inter-observer variability by two examiners, technical error of measurement (TEM) was calculated, and paired t -test and correlation analysis were adopted. Results: TEM was negligible, statistical significance was observed in two landmarks, positive correlation between the two examiners. FSTT of Manipuri adults is generated. The variation of mean values between males and females is minimal. In comparison with values of other Indian populations, differences were observed in certain landmarks. Conclusion: This study plays a part in the growing database of FSTT globally. The data set provided can be applied for forensic facial reconstruction of the studied population.

COMPUTED tomography; MEASUREMENT errors; FORENSIC anthropology; ANTHROPOMETRY; DATABASES

Journal of Forensic Science & Medicine, 2025, Vol 11, Issue 1, p17

2349-5014

Academic Journal

10.4103/jfsm.jfsm_35_23