Thursday, 26 May 2011

Pioneering 3-D Model Technology Helps Physicians Treat Scoliosis and Kyphosis

By Jeffrey Arnold


In the quest for better methods to treat Kyphosis and Scoliosis of the spine, one innovative company has developed 3D Model technology, called an ACRM (Anatomically Correct Reference Model) that can greatly enhance the surgeon's ability to fully analyze the effect of Kyphosis and Scoliosis on the patient's spine, thereby giving the medical provider an edge that those without Three-dimensional technology lack. As a new technology many Physicians who perform Kyphosis and Scoliosis surgeries may not be aware of this valuable resource as yet. As a patient seeking Kyphosis and Scoliosis treatment you should ask your physician if he is aware of this new innovation and if not he/she should consider it.

These 3-D models are created from the information provided by the patient's own CT scans of the affected areas. An advantage of Three-dimensional models is that they identify defects that 2-D images do not, which helps the physician do a better job. These models are not generalizations, they are exact replica models of a patient's spine and accurate to within 1/35th of a millimeter. This is an industry-changing innovation as it gives the surgeon the opportunity to actually hold this replica of the Scoliosis spine in their hand and allows them the opportunity to do a pre-surgery evaluation and practice the technique prior to actual operation.

When you have Scoliosis of the spine, knowing the physician you are dealing with stays on top of new technology such as this helps to bring peace of mind when it comes to such a delicate Kyphosis and Scoliosis operation. These models can be used to help the medical provider explain to you in detail exactly what they are seeing and exactly what will happen during your treatment for Kyphosis and Scoliosis.

Orthpaedic Physicians who are already using the Three-dimensional models in their own practices are very pleased with the advantages they are experiencing over 2-D imagery. There is a cost reduction to patients of over $12,000 due to total Scoliosis surgery time being reduced 10-15% since the Physicians have the ability to practice the surgery beforehand. There has also been a reduction in patient mortality since the surgeon can locate potential issues ahead of time and anticipate them. Patient care can also be optimized now that everyone involved can be made aware of exactly what can be expected and prepared for.

With so many advantages to the patient, it would be to everyone's benefit if all orthopaedic Physicians began using the 3D model technology developed and marketed as ACRMs. When it comes to something as detailed as your back, you want to know your medical provider is not only highly knowledgable, but also using the most up-to-date technology available.




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