Peng Zhao, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Wanli Bi MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Ning Li, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

To evaluate the clinical value of advanced MDCT post-processing techniques in congenital scoliosis orthopaedic surgery.

A retrospective study was performed on 37 patients with congenital scoliosis underwent examination with both x-ray films and multidetector CT. Proper MDCT parameters were selected to lower radiation dose. The role of advanced CT post-processing (MPR, CPR and VR) imaging in finding and displaying deformity structure was compared to x-ray films. The whole scoliotic spine was described in respectively coronal or sagittal plane CPR image to study anatomic structure of deformity. Length and width of vertebral pedicle were measured by adjusted MPR techniques to evaluate whether it is suitable for screw being implanted, and choosing the matching screw（including length, diameter）before orthopedic operation. Locations of implanting screws, relationships of them to vertebral canal in 9 cases were observed in MPR image after operation.

64 deformities founded by x-ray films and additional 229 deformities were detected by the advanced reformatted images of MDCT. 208 vertebral pedicles were studied by adjusted MPR techniques before orthopedic operation. 161 vertebral pedicle's width ≥3.5mm, 35's＜3.5mm, 5 vertebral pedicles with obvious deformity and 7 pedicles undeveloped can't be measured (Note: the least diameter of implanting screw is 3.5mm). The positions of 2 screws were unsatisfactory in 9cases in postoperative evaluation. One screw penetrated the anterior compact bone of vertebral body and the other was adjacent to the spinal canal because the screw break corresponding vertebral arch.   

MDCT post-processing techniques can clearly display the detailed anatomic structure of congenital scoliosis deformity. CPR imaging can clearly describe deformity in whole scoliotic spine in coronal or sagittal plane. Vertebral pedicel's parameter can be measured by adjusted MPR techniques before surgery, it is benefit to choose implanting screw and helpful to plan the pathway of screw in the vertebral arch. Advanced reformatted images can offer objective evaluation for surgery effect.

MDCT post-processing technique can clearly display anatomic structure of congenital scoliosis, which is helpful in preoperative assessment, surgical choosing and surgical effect evaluating.

Zhao, P, Bi, W, Li, N, Value of Multidetector CT Post-processing Techniques in Congenital Scoliosis Orthopaedic Surgery.  Radiological Society of North America 2010 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 28 - December 3, 2010 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2010/9003693.html