Impact of Head Position on Facial Soft Tissue Thickness: An Ultrasound Study in the Slovak Population

• Published in: Forensic sciences (Basel, Switzerland) Vol. 5; no. 1; p. 5
• Main Authors: Kozáková, Zuzana, Sulis, Simona, Falbová, Darina, Vorobeľová, Lenka, Matláková, Mária, Beňuš, Radoslav, Švábová, Petra
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 20.01.2025
• Subjects: anthropometry; craniofacial reconstruction; facial soft tissue thickness; forensic anthropology; ultrasound measurement
• ISSN: 2673-6756; 2673-6756
• DOI: 10.3390/forensicsci5010005

Background/Objectives: Facial soft tissue thickness (FSTT) data are extensively utilized in forensic and medical sciences, serving as a foundational element for craniofacial reconstruction and identification methods. This study aims to analyze the differences in FSTT measurements between upright and supine positions in living subjects. Methods: The study sample consisted of 121 participants aged 20 to 86 years from Slovakia. Biological sex and age data were collected. FSTT measurements were taken at eight medial facial line landmarks and eight bilateral landmarks using a non-invasive General Electric LOGIQe R7 ultrasound device. Results: The results indicate that the head position significantly influenced more than half of the landmarks, with mean differences not exceeding 1.31 mm. Most FSTT values were higher in the horizontal position. Younger males and females exhibited significant differences in FSTT across various regions, including the eye, cheek, nose and mouth, with discrepancies in the forehead, chin, and cheek regions among younger males. In older males, only the gonion region showed a significant position-related difference, while older females demonstrated substantial FSTT changes at five landmarks, with the largest difference (1.31 mm) observed at the mandible, accounting for 15.74% of the mean FSTT. Compared to younger groups, older females exhibited higher FSTT values in the upright position. Conclusions: These findings suggest that measurements in an upright position may be more suitable for facial reconstruction, as positional changes in FSTT can occur in both positive and negative directions.