Protocol for the Use of Stereophotogrammetry Three-dimensional System in Children during the First Years of Life.

Aims and background: To describe the protocol for the use of portable stereophotogrammetry equipment for the acquisition of three-dimensional (3D) facial images in children during the first years of life. Materials and methods: The images were acquired using a portable stereophotogrammetry equipment (Vectra H2®). Three consecutive images were captured, starting on the right, front, and left sides of the child participant. One operator took three facial images, while another operator attracted the child's attention with a toy/children's video. After the facial captures, the software rendered the three images automatically or manually. Results: Initially, 52 3D photographs of the participants were taken, 14 of them of children without craniofacial anomalies and 38 of children with craniofacial anomalies. The children's age ranged from 22 days to 27 months. Conclusion: The protocol for the use of portable stereophotogrammetry equipment in children during the first years of life helps the professional in the proper positioning and management for the acquisition of 3D facial images, in addition to allowing standardization both for future studies and for use during clinical care. Clinical significance: Knowledge about the craniofacial development of children in early childhood is critical for diagnosis and clinical practice throughout childhood growth. How to cite this article: Quagliato DR, Mello-Peixoto YCT, Ambrosio ECP,