Center of Gravity (COG) in Scoliosis

· (a – DePuy AcroMed)

INTRODUCTION: The location of the body’s COG is important to assist with surgical planning and to maintain or restore coronal and sagittal plane balance.

PURPOSE: Develop methods to quantify COG locations in patients during lying, standing, and gait.

METHODS: Methods were developed to determine the whole body COG from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) during lying, and from a video system during lying, standing, and gait. Data were collected from an able-bodied male and female, and from a postoperative spinal fusion female.

RESULTS: Results indicated close approximation of COG locations from the MRI and 2 video based methods in the coronal plane, with greater variation existing for the sagittal and transverse planes.

CONCLUSIONS: A method has been developed to determine the location of the COG in subjects undergoing spinal fusion surgery. MRI data used in conjunction with a video method can provide accurate COG locations during lying, standing, and gait.

· If noted, the author indicates something of value received. The codes are identified as: a-research or institutional support; b-miscellaneous funding; c-royalties; d-stock options.