Scoliosis evaluation by direct digital radiography and computerized post-processing.

With the introduction of direct digital radiography into clinical practice, there are opportunities to provide faster and more reliable ways of performing traditional radiological tasks. A technique was developed for evaluating and measuring scoliosis, which involves the computerized stitching of a radiograph of the thoracic spine with a radiograph of the lumbar spine. A technique is provided for real-time, graphic feedback during the stitching process, as well as during calculation and display of the Cobb angle to ensure accuracy. Initial data indicates an accuracy within 1 to 2 degrees. The time required to stitch the two images and measure the Cobb angle is on the average of 5 minutes per case. Using computerized techniques of image stitching and angle calculation, with real-time graphical feedback, the task of scoliosis evaluation is more accurate, less time consuming, and prone to fewer human errors. The requirement for special film cassettes is also eliminated.