Ultrasound for Scoliosis Diagnostic Evaluation

Slicer+PLUS: Collaborative, Open-source Software for Ultrasound Analysis

Scoliosis is a complex 3-dimensional deformity of the spine. It may occur at any time throughout growth and development and is typically detected through x-ray imaging. Although effective at visualizing a curve, x-ray imaging is costly and may expose children to potentially harmful ionizing radiation. This is a 30 patient study to evaluate the reliability of ultrasound, an imaging technique without radiation, to effectively measure scoliosis deformities compared to the gold-standard of x-ray.

All patients who present to Children's National Medical Center for initial evaluation of idiopathic or juvenile scoliosis will be approached.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All patients ages 7-17 years who present to Dr. Matthew Oetgen in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine for clinical evaluation of scoliosis,
• Scoliosis curve type to include adolescent idiopathic (AIS) or juvenile, and
• Have x-rays taken as part of clinical evaluation

Exclusion Criteria:

• Not willing or able to provide consent, or
• Had x-rays taken at an outside facility, or
• Any underlying neuromuscular condition or syndrome and congenital deformities