Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 26, 2026
10:07
Measurement of Dynamic Scapular Kinematics Using an Acromion Marker Cluster to Minimize Skin Movement Artifact
Published on: February 10, 2015
Intraobserver reproducibility and interobserver reliability of cervical spine measurements
C C Wellborn1, P F Sturm, R S Hatch
1Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA.
Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics
|January 21, 2000
Summary
Reliability of radiographic measurements for atlanto-dens interval and other parameters in Down syndrome patients was assessed. Findings suggest these measurements may lack sufficient consistency for clinical treatment protocols.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Genetics
Background:
- Down syndrome is associated with atlantoaxial instability.
- Accurate measurement of cervical spine parameters is crucial for managing this risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the interobserver reliability and intraobserver reproducibility of four radiographic measurements in patients with Down syndrome.
- To determine if these measurements are consistent enough for clinical decision-making.
Main Methods:
- Lateral flexion-extension radiographs of 72 patients with Down syndrome were analyzed.
- Three blinded observers reviewed the radiographs on three separate occasions.
- Intraclass correlation coefficient was used to assess reliability and reproducibility.
Main Results:
- The atlanto-dens interval showed statistically significant intraobserver agreement, outperforming other measurements (p < 0.05).
- Atlanto-dens interval and Wiesel-Rothman measurements demonstrated fair, but statistically significant, interobserver agreement (p < 0.05).
- Power's ratio showed poor agreement between observers.
Conclusions:
- The intraobserver reproducibility and interobserver reliability of these radiographic measurements are limited.
- Current measurement consistency may not support their use in establishing treatment protocols for Down syndrome patients.
