UAlberta designs portable ultrasound to detect scoliosis

An engineering professor at the University of Alberta (UAlberta) has developed an ultrasound device that can detect scoliosis in adolescents.

This minimizes the risks associated with devices that use X-rays.

Dr. Edmond Lou, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at UAlberta, defines adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) “as a deformity of the spine that occurs in two to four per cent of those between the ages of 10 and 18.”

He says it could progress and become permanent if left untreated.

Dr. Lou’s device is a smart device that has electronics and a software system that gives a three-dimensional image of the spine, by reading a series of images.

“We can display the entire spine on the monitor and measure its curvature, with no X-ray involved,” said Lou.

He adds too much exposure to X-rays through radiography puts patients at risk of contracting cancer. In addition, X-rays are not as sensitive in detecting the spinal deformity as the new device.

Lou adds the new portable device is less expensive than the traditional ultrasound system, noting the old system cost around US$45,000, while the new one only cost US$11,000.

He says around 30 per cent of people with AIS require bracing and surgery.

“If we can diagnose scoliosis earlier, there will be better treatment and we can prevent people from having to do surgery,” Lou explained.

Lou says he started working on the ultrasound project 12 years ago, and his team is one of “two pioneer teams in the world using ultrasound to detect scoliosis,” noting that the other one is located in Hong Kong.

Meanwhile, Lou says this invention can be applied to study hip dislocation in children with cerebral palsy, and to examine children’s bone health in their teeth to decide whether braces are advised or not.

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Currently, Lou is working on securing some funding to launch a company for his scoliosis technology.

“Right now the scanning still needs to be done in a medical clinic, but I have a new idea for the next generation so anyone can do it at home — anywhere, anytime,” said Lou. “Everything will be automatic, and you will be able to see the scan on your phone.”

The invention of this device is backed “by the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation through the Women and Children’s Health Research Institute.”