A Novel Screening Method for Scoliosis Using A Bodysuit and 3-dimensional Imaging.

Abstract

A single-center prospective observational study. To clarify the usefulness of a novel scoliosis screening method using a 3-dimensional (3D) human fitting application and a specific bodysuit. Several scoliosis screening methods, such as scoliometer and Moiré topography, are available for detecting scoliosis. In the present study, a novel screening method for scoliosis using a 3D human fitting application and a specific bodysuit was developed. Patients with scoliosis or suspected scoliosis, non-scoliosis patients, and healthy volunteers were enrolled. They were divided into Non-Scoliosis and Scoliosis groups. The Scoliosis group was further subdivided into Mild-, Moderate-, and Severe-Scoliosis. Patients' characteristics and Z values, which were calculated by a 3D virtual human body model created by a 3D human fitting application and a specific bodysuit to evaluate trunk asymmetry caused by scoliosis, were compared between the Non-Scoliosis and Scoliosis groups or among the Non-, Mild-, Moderate- and Severe-Scoliosis groups. Finally, the optimal cutoff of the Z value was determined to detect moderate to severe scoliosis using receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis. A total of 101 patients were included. The Non-Scoliosis group consisted of 47 patients, and the Scoliosis group included 54 patients, with 11, 31, and 12 patients in the Mild-, Moderate-, and Severe-Scoliosis groups, respectively. The Scoliosis group showed a significantly higher Z value than the Non-Scoliosis group. The Moderate- or Severe-Scoliosis group had a significantly higher Z value than the Non- or Mild-Scoliosis group. The ROC curve analysis revealed that the optimal cutoff of the Z value was 19.9mm (sensitivity, 95.3%; specificity, 58.6%). A novel scoliosis screening method consisting of a 3D human fitting application and a specific bodysuit may be useful for detecting moderate to severe scoliosis.