NEW METHOD FOR MEASUREMENT OF HUMAN SPINE SCOLIOSIS BASED ON PHOTOGRAPHY

Abstract

Background: The Cobb angle is broadly used for measuring scoliotic curvatures. But this method requires patients to undergo radiography. Objective: in this work, a new methodology for human vertebral spine deviation measurement is presented as a way to better the clinic monitoring of the evolution of scoliosis. Method: the proposed method consists of routines for measuring curvatures and angles, which can be implemented in computer programs. The new methodology can be applied to photographs of the patient column, needing only the identification of the points that define each vertebra by markers. The deviation is determined on two dimensions photos, though the routines presented here can be adapted to three-dimension data. Results: the results attained so far point to a robust method and suitable for clinical use, with uncertainties consistent with those obtained with the Cobb method, thus avoiding the recurrent use of expensive examinations and patient health deleterious exposition to X-rays. Conclusions: the method for evaluating the scoliotic angle presented in this study may be a more objective, simple to use, and low-cost alternative compared to the Cobb method, and although it still requires follow-up and analysis by a qualified healthcare professional, it can reduce x-ray exposure of patients being treated for spinal deviations.