Palm-sized 3D Ultrasound Imaging System for Radiation-free Scoliosis Assessment

Scoliosis is the most common spinal disease among kids, and X-ray is currently the clinical gold standard for diagnosing scoliosis. However, according to a recent study, X-ray-diagnosis increases the risk of cancer among scoliosis patients by 500% 25 years after treatment, with average of 16 radiographs taken during the treatment period. To facilitate safe and easy use of radiation-free ultra-sound 3D imaging technology for assessing scoliosis, our research team uses a novel 3D optical tracking method to capture the movements of the wireless ultrasound probe, which obtains real-time ultrasound images of musculoskeletal tissues. The size of the 3D ultrasound imaging system can thus be greatly reduced to palm-sized. In addition, a programme has been developed for volume reconstruction, visualization, segmentation and measurement. The new system enables accurate mass screening for scoliosis in places such as schools and frequent monitoring of scoliosis progression to reduce severe cases and X-ray dosage.