3D CT scan—A valuable adjunct to radiography

Abstract

Abstract Background: Deformity correction is based on Full-length True Antero-Posterior and Lateral radiographs. However, a 3D computed tomography (CT) Scan provides a more intricate and detailed understanding of the deformities, so as to plan for the correction with utmost precision. Objective: To prove that 3D computed tomography (CT) Scan provides a more intricate and detailed understanding of the deformities. Materials and Methods: A series of 107 cases, studied from 2017, for a period of 5 years, at our institute was done by means of 3D CT scan. Evaluation was done by measuring angles and lines for further deformity correction, especially in the complex rotational deformities; and osteotomies were performed with Ilizarov fixation. 3D printing was done in selected cases. The patient was made to walk in the immediate postoperative period. The Hexapods were tuned as per the calculations made on the SUV software, for gradual correction. Results: The greatest advantage of using 3D CT is a visualization of the minute details. This may alter the number of osteotomies needed. Eventually, this aids in better correction, when compared with a normal X-ray scannogram. Precision of up to 0.001° was achieved with the DICOM images obtained upon doing the 3D CT, in our study. Conclusion: The information on the deformity in sagittal, frontal, and rotational planes is obtained by doing a 3D CT scan, which allows for further precise planning of the correction. And, as a matter of fact, many Orthopedic Surgeons do not attempt deformity correction as they do not have access to proper full-length X-ray scannograms. Our method gives a precise, cheap, and easily available full-length picture of the deformity, with many more advantages.