Experiments with a novel content-based image retrieval software: can we eliminate classification systems in...

Study Design Preliminary evaluation of new tool. Objective To ascertain whether the newly developed content-based image retrieval (CBIR) software can be used successfully to retrieve images of similar cases of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) from a database to help plan treatment without adhering to a classification scheme. Methods Sixty-two operated cases of AIS were entered into the newly developed CBIR database. Five new cases of different curve patterns were used as query images. The images were fed into the CBIR database that retrieved similar images from the existing cases. These were analyzed by a senior surgeon for conformity to the query image. Results Within the limits of variability set for the query system, all the resultant images conformed to the query image. One case had no similar match in the series. The other four retrieved several images that were matching with the query. No matching case was left out in the series. The postoperative images were then analyzed to check for surgical strategies. Broad guidelines for treatment could be derived from the results. More precise query settings, inclusion of bending films, and a larger database will enhance accurate retrieval and better decision making. Conclusion The CBIR system is an effective tool for accurate documentation and retrieval of scoliosis images. Broad guidelines for surgical strategies can be made from the postoperative images of the existing cases without adhering to any classification scheme.