Ultrasound for Scoliosis Diagnostic Evaluation
Ultrasound for Scoliosis Diagnostic Evaluation
Scoliosis is a complex 3-dimensional deformity of the spine. It may occur at any time
 throughout growth and development and is typically detected through x-ray imaging. Although
 effective at visualizing a curve, x-ray imaging is costly and may expose children to
 potentially harmful ionizing radiation. This is a 30 patient study to evaluate the
 reliability of ultrasound, an imaging technique without radiation, to effectively measure
 scoliosis deformities compared to the gold-standard of x-ray.
All patients who present to Children's National Medical Center for initial evaluation of
 idiopathic or juvenile scoliosis will be approached.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  All patients ages 7-17 years who present to Dr. Matthew Oetgen in the Department of
 Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine for clinical evaluation of scoliosis,

 -  Scoliosis curve type to include adolescent idiopathic (AIS) or juvenile, and

 -  Have x-rays taken as part of clinical evaluation

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  Not willing or able to provide consent, or

 -  Had x-rays taken at an outside facility, or

 -  Any underlying neuromuscular condition or syndrome and congenital deformities