Computer graphics analysis of the three-dimensional deformities of scoliotic vertebrae.

Goal: A computer graphics method that permits the reconstruction, visualization and measure of the vertebral deformities of the scoliotic spine is presented. Materials: Medical imaging techniques utilizing computerized tomography is at the foundation of the reconstruction technique, The studied morphometric parameters are : 1) vertebral body wedging, 2) transverse and spinous process orientation and dimensions and 3) bilateral variation of pedicular dimensions. Results: The reconstructed specimen showed the usefulness of this technique for visualizing and measuring vertebral deformities. Preliminary results seem to be in agreement with the literature concerning the deformities of scoliotic vertebrae. Conclusion : This tool will be useful in morphometric investigations for the evaluation of the deformations of scoliotic vertebrae.