Scoliosis management through novel asymmetry surface topography analysis

Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves abnormally, often developing in children and adolescents. To monitor how scoliosis progresses, patients usually have repeated x-rays over several years, sometimes as often as every six months. While this helps doctors track changes in the spine, it also means children are exposed to repeated radiation during an important time in their growth and development. Our project introduces a new, non-invasive technology called BackSCNR that can assess spinal curvature using 3D surface scans of the back, without any radiation. This project could improve scoliosis care by reducing radiation exposure, cutting costs, and making clinic visits easier for families. If successful, BackSCNR could become a widely used tool, bringing safe and accurate scoliosis monitoring to clinics everywhere, especially in places with limited access to imaging. Our goal is to improve care while keeping the health and safety of children as the top priority.

Faculty Supervisor:

Lindsey Westover;Samer Adeeb

Student:

Partner:

Alberta Health Services

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Public administration; Retail trade

University:

University of Alberta

Program: