Evaluation of vertebral rotation in scoliosis by computer tomography

We attempted to use computer tomography (CT) for evaluating the vertebral rotation in scoliosis. Thirty curvatures of twenty-two patients were subjected to the examination. After the apical vertebrae were scanned, roentgenogram was taken in supine position. The computer tomogram taken was traced on the paper. We defined the vertebral rotation as the angle forming between the long axis of the vertebral body passing through the middle point of the posterior longitudinal ligament and the sagittal plane. The results of our observation in CT were a little different from those that Nash and Moe studied. (author)