Microcomputer reconstruction for analysis of spinal deformity and lung volume in hypokyphotic scoliosis.
Current techniques for imaging chest deformity are limited to two-dimensional representations, and clinical testing for lung volume measurements are based on pulmonary function studies that are effort-dependent. The authors evaluated spine deformity and lung volume by using a new three-dimensional microcomputer imaging technique. Results from preoperative and postoperative chest computed tomograms underwent boundary detection by expert human observers. Data were then processed by polygon surface tiling to create three-dimensional color images of the spine and lungs for display. This computer technique allowed: 1) visualization of the anatomic relationships from any angle, 2) assessment of spinal deformity in relation to lung volume, and 3) measurement of individual lung volumes. Three-dimensional microcomputer imaging is a useful technique in objectively measuring lung volume and assessing postoperative changes.
Malcolm
J R
JR
Orthopaedic Surgery Service, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia.
Wind
G G
GG
Allely
E B
EB
Van Dam
B E
BE
D000293:Adolescent; D003196:Computer Graphics; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008168:Lung / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D008297:Male; D008838:Microcomputers; D012600:Scoliosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed