Initial imaging evaluation of a patient suspected of having
scoliosis is by a standing posterior-anterior thoracolumbar spine
radiograph done on a single long film. Modern radiographic techniques
minimize radiation exposure.
A standing side view
radiograph of the thoracolumbar spine is suggested if significant
deformity is present in the front-to-back (sagittal) plane. Radiographs
are assessed for spinal column contour and to rule out congenital,
developmental, degenerative or neoplastic abnormalities. The amount of
each deformity is calculated using a standard, reproducible measurement
technique. An estimate of skeletal maturity is made by assessment of the
growth areas at the upper pelvis and hips.
Specialized
imaging studies such as (CT scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)) may
occasionally be needed. Magnetic resonance imaging is done to evaluate the
spinal cord and spinal nerves.
As with all studies,
MRI is done for a specific indication and correlated with clinical
examination. Myelography, a radiographic study which uses an injected dye
to provide contrast to study the spinal canal and its contents, has been
largely replaced by magnetic resonance imaging techniques. CT scans are
used to provide improved definition of abnormalities of vertebral size,
shape or number.
