Detecting Early Stages of Idiopathic Scoliosis Spinal Deformity
Author: Hokkaido University
Published: 2016/11/21 - Updated: 2021/04/22
Topic: Back Pain Information (Publications Database)
Page Content: Synopsis Introduction Main Item
Synopsis: 3D symmetry recognition system detects early stages of idiopathic scoliosis, a curvature of the spine.
• Early detection of the progressive ailment is regarded as essential for treatment, as it is effective to wear a special brace when the spine is curved by 30 degrees or more.
• The device three-dimensionally scans multiple points on the back, enabling the evaluation of the back's symmetry from any angle in a few seconds.
Introduction
Hokkaido University researchers have developed a symmetry-recognition system for the surface of the human back that can three-dimensionally detect the early stages of idiopathic scoliosis, a type of spinal deformity, without the help of a specialist doctor.
Main Item
Individuals with idiopathic scoliosis, many of whom are pubescent girls, suffer from serious curvature of the spine. The disease has a characteristically high affliction rate, affecting one in 50 people.
Early detection of the progressive ailment is regarded as essential for treatment, as it is effective to wear a special brace when the spine is curved by 30 degrees or more. In recent years, genetic study of the disease has progressed, boosting the development of treatments.
In accordance with stipulations in the Japanese School Health and Safety Act, elementary and junior high schools conduct physical check-ups aimed at detecting idiopathic scoliosis. However, the law leaves it up to the respective medical associations or education boards in each municipality to decide how to conduct the checks, giving rise to regional gaps in the detection rate.
Another related problem is the burden placed on doctors who have to examine a large number of students within a limited time frame.
To address these issues, two scientists from different fields of research, Associate Professor Hideki Sudo of Hokkaido University's Graduate School of Medicine and Professor Satoshi Kanai of the Graduate School of Information Science and Technology developed a system to evaluate the level of asymmetry on the surface of the back when measured three-dimensionally.
In a collaboration between the university and Noa Co., Ltd., the researchers developed a prototype device for detecting idiopathic scoliosis. The device is expected to go through clinical testing so that it can be used in clinics and for physical examinations at schools.
The device three-dimensionally scans multiple points on the back, enabling the evaluation of the back's symmetry from any angle in a few seconds. In this way, it is expected to enable speedy and accurate detections of idiopathic scoliosis. In the future, the researchers hope to gain government approval for the clinical use of their device.
Attribution/Source(s):
This quality-reviewed publication was selected for publishing by the editors of Disabled World due to its significant relevance to the disability community. Originally authored by Hokkaido University, and published on 2016/11/21 (Edit Update: 2021/04/22), the content may have been edited for style, clarity, or brevity. For further details or clarifications, Hokkaido University can be contacted at global.hokudai.ac.jp. NOTE: Disabled World does not provide any warranties or endorsements related to this article.
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Cite This Page (APA): Hokkaido University. (2016, November 21 - Last revised: 2021, April 22). Detecting Early Stages of Idiopathic Scoliosis Spinal Deformity. Disabled World. Retrieved December 1, 2024 from www.disabled-world.com/disability/types/spinal/backpain/is-spine.php
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