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Abstract

Background: Scoliosis is a complex spinal disorder characterized by abnormal lateral curvature, often resulting in vertebral deformity and compromised posture. Conventional radiographs provide limited assessment, particularly in evaluating vertebral height and axial rotation. Computed Tomography (CT) offers high-resolution, three-dimensional imaging, enabling detailed evaluation of spinal alignment, curvature, and structural integrity. This study explores the role of CT imaging in determining scoliosis severity and its degenerative implications on vertebral architecture.
Objective: To assess the severity of scoliosis and its effects on spinal curvature and vertebral height reduction using advanced computed tomography techniques.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted over four months in the Radiology Department of Ghurki Trust and Teaching Hospital. Fifty patients aged 7 to 70 years, fulfilling strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, underwent CT scans using a 16-slice Toshiba Aquilion machine. Demographic data, Cobb angles, vertebral height measurements, and degenerative spinal findings were recorded. CT images were interpreted by expert radiologists, and data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Statistical correlations were drawn between scoliosis severity and structural spinal changes.
Results: Among the 50 patients, 29 (58%) were female and 21 (42%) male. Left-sided convexity was more common (66%) compared to right (34%). Cobb angle distribution included 17 (34%) patients at 10°, 13 (26%) at 15°, 10 (20%) at 20°, and 5 (10%) each at 30° and 40°. Vertebral height reduction was observed in all patients: 2 mm in 12 (24%), 3 mm in 23 (46%), 4 mm in 13 (26%), and 5 mm in 2 (4%) cases. Degenerative spinal changes were present in 8 (16%) patients; osteopenia in 6 (12%) and osteoporosis in 1 (2%). Disc degeneration was universal, graded as mild in 35 (70%), moderate in 13 (26%), and severe in 2 (4%).
Conclusion: CT imaging proved highly effective in detecting scoliosis severity, vertebral height loss, and associated degenerative changes. The correlation between increased Cobb angles and vertebral deformation supports CT as a valuable tool for early diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment planning in scoliosis management.