Assessment of Vertebral Curves Using the Manual Post-It Technique

• DOI: 10.1097/bsd.0000000000000070
• Publication Date: 2013-12-11T13:29:25Z
• Authors: Brian P. Gladnick; Joseph J. Schreiber; Chad R. Ishmael; Benjamin T. Bjerk...; Matthew E. Cunnin...
• Keywords: Digital radiography; DICOM; Goniometer; Kyphosis

A prospective study of a new technique.The aims this were to report manual technique for measuring vertebral curves on digital spine radiographs, and assess the agreement with that software curves.Modern picture archiving communication systems (PACS) typically include evaluating radiographic measurements. However, in outpatient setting, patients may present radiographs stored physical disc, which not curves. Certain smartphone applications be used determine curve magnitude; however, need exists an accurate measure absence available analytic or technology.We prospectively reviewed anteroposterior lateral 24 spinal deformity patients. Two independent observers measured Cobb angles for: (1) major coronal curve; (2) thoracic kyphosis (T2-T12); (3) lumbar lordosis (T12-S1). Measurements made: digitally using our institution's PACS; by technique, involves placement adhesive Post-It note directly computer screen, transcribing angle onto pencil, handheld goniometer. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) calculated between 2 methods.For both observers, PACS techniques was graded as excellent sagittal plane (all ICCs>0.9). Interobserver reliability also ICCs>0.9).The demonstrated system series Curves can accurately convenient technique.