Three-dimensional spinal and pelvic alignment in an asymptomatic population.
METHODS
A 3-dimensional (3-D) analysis of asymptomatic spinal and pelvic alignment.


OBJECTIVE
To obtain 3-D reference values of spinal and pelvic parameters, vertebral and intervertebral orientations.


BACKGROUND
Referential values of spine and pelvis alignment are essential for the assessment of posture and balance. However, only 2-D referential values have been reported using standing sagittal radiographs, and, to our knowledge, no 3-D referential values have been reported to date.


METHODS
A biplanar radiographic technique was used to obtain the 3-D reconstruction of the spine and pelvis of 34 asymptomatic standing subjects. The 3-D values were calculated for most of the spinal and pelvic parameters. In addition, 3-D vertebral and intervertebral orientations were computed, and the apical and junctional zones were investigated.


RESULTS
As reported in 2-D, a large variability and particular correlations were observed for the 3-D spinal and pelvic parameters. However, significant differences were found between 3-D and 2-D values. The 3-D vertebral and intervertebral sagittal rotations showed specific features in the apical and junctional zones of the asymptomatic spine.


CONCLUSIONS
These data may be used as 3-D referential values of spinal and pelvic alignment.
Gangnet
Nicolas
N
Bordeaux University Hospital, Spinal Disorders Unit, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Bordeaux, France. nicolas.gangnet@chu-bordeaux.fr
Dumas
Raphaël
R
Pomero
Vincent
V
Mitulescu
Anca
A
Skalli
Wafa
W
Vital
Jean-Marc
JM
D000328:Adult; D001175:Arthrography / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D007403:Intervertebral Disc / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000502:physiology; D008297:Male; D010388:Pelvis / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000502:physiology; D004856:Postural Balance; D011187:Posture; D012016:Reference Values; D013131:Spine / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000502:physiology