The low-radiation feature of the technology is especially attractive for children who may need multiple images over the years to monitor scoliosis.

Published: February 14, 2022

The pediatric orthopedic specialists at Norton Children’s Orthopedics of Louisville, affiliated with the UofL School of Medicine, have started using an extremely low-radiation system for collecting high-quality 2D and 3D images.

The low-radiation feature of the technology is especially attractive for children who may need multiple images over the years to monitor scoliosis. If surgery is required, the system provides detailed tools for planning the operation, including 3D models.

The EOS Imaging system is also useful for imaging lower limbs and can provide full-body images from the front and side even while the child is sitting or standing.

With the help of a $300,000 grant from the Norton Children’s Hospital Foundation with support from PACCAR Foundation, the EOS system was recently installed at the Norton Healthcare Pavilion in downtown Louisville.

The EOS  system offers 50% to 85% less radiation than traditional X-ray systems and 95% less dose than basic computed tomography (CT) scans. The Micro Dose feature further reduces radiation exposure, offering pediatric front and side full-spine images at a dose that’s equivalent to only a week’s worth of natural radiation.

“EOS represents a true breakthrough in orthopedic imaging by offering high image quality at a low [X-ray] dose. The full-body, weight-bearing images and 3D models improve the level of understanding of the patient’s condition so we can provide enhanced orthopedic care,” said Joshua W. Meier, M.D., pediatric orthopedic surgeon with Norton Children’s Orthopedics of Louisville.

3D models of the patient’s unique anatomy — possible with this new technology — make for more precise diagnoses and can be used for developing customized surgical plans.

Unlike many other imaging technologies, EOS can capture images while the patient is upright and bearing weight, rather than lying down like in the MRI machines. We are able to customize  the EOS machine for height, and patients may stand, sit, bend or squat, depending on the part of the body being evaluated. The weight-bearing position allows physicians to evaluate the patient’s posture more accurately and better understand the relationship between the spine, pelvis and lower limbs.