Clinical trial of CPT (complex phase tracing) profilometry in scoliosis

CPT(complex phase tracing) profilometry was selected as a method of choice for clinical use in back surface topography recording. Two mutually out-of- phase patterns are projected on the back surface of the patient, recorded a nd demodulated according to the CPT procedure. Ten subjects have been inves tigated, 3 subjects being healthy controls. The system was reliable in meas uring back; shape with millimetric definition (+/- 1 mm). It proved to be f ast in acquiring topographical data, requiring less than 0.3 sec and, then, overcoming problems related to breathing of the patient. Data analysis was enough fast to provide a visual output within few minutes, allowing the ex aminer to perform a further acquisition, if needed, and the patient to appr eciate the output of the analysis. Presence of asymmetry was easily detecte d and dearly highlighted; improvements related to treatment was evidenced i n those subjects where a follow-up exam was performed.