Emerging Techniques in Diagnostic Imaging for Idiopathic Scoliosis in Children and Adolescents: A Review of the Literature

Traditionally, full spine standing radiographs have been the reference standard for diagnostic imaging in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). However, recent advances in diagnostic imaging have the potential to reduce radiation exposure and preserve the image quality and utility. Recent advances in diagnostic imaging for AIS include the EOS imaging system, the DIERS formetric scanner, and ultrasonography. Moderate to strong evidence is available to support the interobserver reliability and validity of each of these modalities, even compared with the reference standard imaging techniques. As such, these emerging techniques might prove beneficial in diagnosing and monitoring AIS and its progression, without high levels of continued radiation exposure. To understand the historical perspective and current state of advanced imaging techniques for AIS, a search of PubMed electronic database was conducted to identify studies that had examined these new techniques in the diagnosis of idiopathic scoliosis in children and adolescents.