Intraoperative 3D reconstruction of the scoliotic spine from biplanar radiographic images

A new method which allows the intraoperative 3D reconstruction of the entir e spine from biplanar radiographs was developed in order to evaluate the 3D correction of scoliotic deformities during the surgical procedure. This ne w reconstruction technique uses a calibration object built from a 21 cm x 2 7 cm aluminium sheet, folded in three perpendicular faces, with 15 embedded markers. Computer simulations were performed to evaluate the optimal size and position of the calibration object to obtain an accurate 3D reconstruct ion for clinical applications. The validation of the proposed method on rea l images of a physical object showed that the new technique gives better re sults man the DLT technique in a real surgical environment.