Orthodontic Diagnostics: A Modified Sassouni Plus Cephalometric Analysis

Modern orthodontic diagnostics require an extensive knowledge of not only occlusion but of craniofacial growth. The study of cephalometrics is an age-old concept advanced by hundreds of orthodontic experts, societies and associations for the purposes of nomenclature, diagnostic and therapeutic treatment planning. The authors have advanced and improved upon the original Sassouni Plus Cephalometric Analysis to allow for a more neuromuscular functional evaluation. Additional considerations include occlusal, upper airway and craniocervical evaluation of the patient presenting for orthodontic, airway and/or occlusal therapy.

Dr. Richard Beistle of Buchanan, MI, first introduced Sassouni Plus. This analysis had its origin from
orthodontist Dr. Viken Sassouni of the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Sassouni taught orthodontics at the university’s School of Dental Medicine, and he developed the original analysis in the late 1950s for use with the traditional techniques of the time. Sassouni’s research may have been one of the first applications of computers in dentistry. However, Sassouni was unaware of the usefulness of the analysis in evaluating patients, either from a European style functional perspective or from the most modern physiologic perspective.

After Dr. Beistle adapted the analysis, Dr. Jay W. Gerber discovered its importance in the evaluation from a neuromuscular perspective. In 1987, he advanced the diagnosis for a more complete airway and craniomandibular analysis. Approximately 10 years later, Dr. Beistle incorporated cranio-cervical considerations.