Analysis of structural features of deformed spines in frontal and sagittal projections

In the study of spine. two approaches exist. Clinicians still measure directly, either on X-ray films or on digitized images, a small number of angular values characterizing the profile of deformed spines. 3D software programs exist, but they describe the spinal features calculated from a large set number of inputs. An alternative approach is proposed for clinical applications. Frontal and sagittal radiographs are treated separately. Neutral curves are drawn from a small number of records in a small amount of time. Feature parameters accurately describe the spinal shape, and they are the basis for drawing the modeled curve of the spine. These parameters facilitate the follow up of evolutive back pathologies. Several examples display the new technique. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.