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Scoliosis: evidence-based diagnostic evaluation.
Diego Jaramillo1, Tina Young Poussaint, Brian E Grottkau
1Division of Pediatric Radiology, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA. djaramillo@partners.org
Neuroimaging Clinics of North America
|September 19, 2003
Summary
This article reviews imaging for scoliosis, focusing on X-rays and MRI. It addresses measurement variability, unexpected findings, radiation dose, and when MRI is crucial for detecting neural axis issues.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Orthopedics
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Scoliosis evaluation primarily uses plain radiographs and MR imaging.
- Radiographic assessment faces challenges like interobserver variability and incidental findings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize evidence for scoliosis imaging techniques.
- To discuss radiation exposure and minimization strategies.
- To outline MR imaging's role in idiopathic scoliosis, especially for neural axis pathology.
Main Methods:
- Review of evidence for plain radiography and MR imaging in scoliosis.
- Discussion of factors affecting radiographic accuracy.
- Analysis of radiation dose considerations.
- Evaluation of MR imaging indications in idiopathic scoliosis.
Main Results:
- Plain radiographs are standard but have measurement variability.
- Unexpected findings can occur during radiographic evaluation.
- Radiation dose is a concern, with strategies to minimize it.
- MR imaging is valuable for identifying neural axis pathology in specific scoliosis cases.
Conclusions:
- Imaging choices for scoliosis balance diagnostic needs with risks.
- Careful technique and patient selection optimize imaging outcomes.
- MR imaging is essential for high-risk patients to rule out underlying conditions.