title: Three-dimensional classification of spinal deformities using fuzzy clustering.
abstract: METHODS
  A prospective study of a large set of three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions of spinal deformities in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To determine the value of fuzzy clustering techniques to automatically detect clinically relevant 3D curve patterns within this set of 3D spine models.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  Classification is important for the assessment of AIS and has been mainly used to guide surgical treatment. Current classification systems are based on visual curve pattern identification using two-dimensional radiologic measurements but remain controversial because of their low interobserver and intraobserver reliability. A clinically useful 3D classification remains to be found.
  
  
  METHODS
  An unsupervised learning algorithm, fuzzy k-means clustering, was applied on 409 3D spine models. Analysis of data distribution using clinical parameters was performed by studying similar curve patterns, near each cluster center identified.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The algorithm determined that the entire sample of models could be segmented in five easily differentiated curve patterns similar to those of the Lenke and King classifications. Furthermore, a system with 12 classes made possible the identification of subpatterns of spinal deformity with true 3D components.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Automatic and clinically relevant 3D classification of AIS is possible using an unsupervised learning algorithm. This approach can now be used to build a relevant 3D classification of AIS using appropriate key features of 3D models selected by a panel of expert spinal deformity surgeons.
authors.affiliation: Research Center, Sainte-Justine Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
authors.forename: Luc
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Duong
authors.forename: Farida
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Cheriet
authors.forename: Hubert
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Labelle
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D016000:Cluster Analysis; D017143:Fuzzy Logic; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000379:methods*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012600:Scoliosis / Q000145:classification*