Measurement of radiographic magnification in the pelvis using archived CT scans

Prosthesis or allograft selection usually relies on comparison of templates with radiographs of the patient. Radiographic magnification must be evaluated accurately to select the optimal implant. Radiographic magnification was retrospectively assessed in 40 patients by reference to the pelvic height measured on computed tomography scans. Intra-subject variation of the magnification was calculated in 14 patients for whom two different pelvic radiographs were available. A wide range of magnification was observed (112% to 129%) as well as a substantial intra-subject variation (8%). Paired samples t-test showed a systematic error (p < 0.001) in using 110% and 115% as magnification whereas a similar error was not found when using 120%. Mean value for magnification was 119%. Radiographic magnification measurement can be made using the pelvic height method in patients who have undergone thoraco-abdominal, abdominal or pelvic computed tomography.