Precision medicine: a review of the impact of three-dimensional laser scanning over the past decade
- Author:
Andrew PADALHIN
1
Author Information
- Publication Type:Review article
- From: Medical Lasers 2025;14(2):88-96
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
- Abstract: Three-dimensional (3D) laser scanning has revolutionized precision medicine by enabling non-invasive, highresolution digital modeling of anatomical structures. Over the past decade, advancements in hardware and software have led to its widespread adoption across multiple medical disciplines, including maxillofacial surgery, neurosurgery, dentistry, plastic and reconstructive surgery, and forensic science. This technology enhances diagnostic accuracy, facilitates patient-specific treatment planning, and improves surgical outcomes by enabling precise preoperative simulations and postoperative evaluations. In maxillofacial and orthopedic procedures, 3D laser scanning allows for virtual surgical planning and the creation of customized implants, thus improving functional and aesthetic results. In dentistry, it enhances prosthodontic fabrication and orthodontic treatments by ensuring precise measurements and fit. Furthermore, its integration with artificial intelligence, machine learning, and augmented reality presents new possibilities for automation, real-time intraoperative guidance, and predictive analytics. Despite these advancements, challenges remain, including limitations in soft tissue imaging, high costs, and the need for specialized training. This review consolidates recent research on the applications, benefits, and challenges of 3D laser scanning in precision medicine while exploring future directions and applications, such as real-time intraoperative use and AI-driven diagnostics.The continued evolution of this technology is expected to further enhance patient care, surgical precision, and medical research.
