Craniofacial Superimposition: Historical Review and Current Issues

Abstract

Methodology of craniofacial superimposition has evolved dramatically since its inception in the early 20th century. Contemporary approaches involve advanced procedures of digitization, use of video cameras, warping algorithms, skull positioning devices and data derived from computed tomography, radiography, and ultrasound technology. Applications have proven most useful in exclusion and casework frequency has declined in some regions in recent years as molecular approaches to identification have become more widely available. Additional research is needed to clarify the probabilities involved and to facilitate comparisons when the technique is employed.

Keywords: craniofacial identification; forensic science; photographs; skulls.