Optoelectronic evaluation of trunk deformity in scoliosis.

In this study, truncal deformity in patients with scoliosis was evaluated by circumferential scanning using an optoelectronic device (Optronic Torsograph, Anima Corp., Tokyo, Japan). This device generates cross-sectional skin surface topography at 10 axial levels to provide a three-dimensional representation of truncal shape. Ninety-three patients with suspected idiopathic scoliosis were evaluated with conventional Cobb measurements, and their parameters were computed using the device's measurements. The geometric cross-sectional indexes correlated poorly with the Cobb angle and were highly variable during repeated measurements. The optoelectronic device's angle, a measure of centroid curvature, correlated highly with the Cobb angle for primary spinal curves. The highest correlation was observed in thoracolumbar curves. This optoelectronic device has clinical relevance as a method for further scoliosis screening and monitoring the progression of spinal curvature in a patient.