[Ultrasound-controlled anthropometry--on the development of a new method in asymmetry diagnosis]

Recently computer-based methods allow the registration of asymmetries in skeleton-axis. In comparison to classical methods the Ultrasound-Guided-Anthropometry (UGA) has been tested in regard to its quality criteria for representing body specific marks in three dimensions. In a sample of healthy subjects objectivity (n = 13), retest-reliability and internal validity (n = 26) have been determined. For analysis of system-quality a standardized cuboid phantom (side length 400 mm) has been measured.

objectivity r = 0.93-0.98 (p < .05), retest-reliability r = 0.97-0.99 (p < .05) and internal validity between both methods r = 0.92-0.97 (p < .05). The analysis of system-quality produced an error in measurement of 0.65% (0.58 +/- 1.29 mm). UGA as a screening method is not a substitute for case-history or classical anthropometry, but it offers useful parameters which facilitate decision making for further diagnostic procedures.