[3-dimensional approach to spinal deformities. Application to the study of the prognosis of pediatric scoliosis].

The authors have utilized a computer for a spatial analysis of deformities of the spine using antero-posterior and lateral radiographs. The posterior limits of the sacral plateau and the centre of each vertebral plateau was demarcated on the antero-posterior radiograph. The posterior margin of each vertebra was demarcated on the lateral radiograph. With this information, the computer can make a picture as if the spine were seen from above and vertebral rotation can be assessed. The vertebrae are of different colours according to their level. Thirty cases have been studied and six types of infantile scoliosis defined - scoliosis with a localised hyper-rotation like a hairpin, scoliosis with rotary dislocation at the junction of two rotational levels, infantile scoliosis with a moderate curve, progressive scoliosis, benign scoliosis and spontaneously regressive scoliosis of the newborn. This study was shown that prognostic features were in accordance with classical assessments.