Segmented-field radiography in scoliosis.

A method of scoliosis imaging using segmented fields is presented. The method is advantageous for patients requiring serial radiographic monitoring, as it results in markedly reduced radiation doses to critical organs, particularly the breast. Absorbed dose to the breast was measured to be 8.8 mrad (88 microGy) for a full-field examination and 0.051 mrad (5.1 microGy) for the segmented-field study. The segmented-field technique also results in improved image quality. Experience with 53 studies in 23 patients is reported.