Investigative Techniques Commons^™

Use Of An Optical Scanning Device To Monitor The Progress Of Noninvasive Treatments For Chest Wall Deformity: A Pilot Study, Robert E. Kelly Jr., Robert J. Obermeyer, Ann Kuhn, Frazier W. Frantz, Mohammad F. Obeid, Nahom Kidane, Frederic D. Mckenzie

Computational Modeling & Simulation Engineering Faculty Publications

Background: The nonsurgical treatment of chest wall deformity by a vacuum bell or external brace is gradual, with correction taking place over months. Monitoring the progress of nonsurgical treatment of chest wall deformity has relied on the ancient methods of measuring the depth of the excavatum and the protrusion of the carinatum. Patients, who are often adolescent, may become discouraged and abandon treatment. Methods: Optical scanning was utilized before and after the intervention to assess the effectiveness of treatment. The device measured the change in chest shape at each visit. In this pilot study, patients were included if they were …