Authors:
Ana Gabriel
1
;
Claudia Quaresma
2
and
Pedro Vieira
1
Affiliations:
1
Faculty of Sciences and Technology, New University of Lisbon, Faculty of Sciences and Technology and New University of Lisbon, Portugal
;
2
Faculty of Sciences and Technology and New University of Lisbon, Portugal
Keyword(s):
Spinal Column, Biomechanics, Non-invasive, Medical Device, Stereo Vision.
Related
Ontology
Subjects/Areas/Topics:
Biomechanical Devices
;
Biomedical Engineering
;
Biomedical Equipment
;
Biomedical Instruments and Devices
;
Rehabilitation Technology
Abstract:
Back pain is a major health problem in modern society. It is known that the main responsible for this
symptom are the biomechanical changes in the spinal column. Thus, it is important to develop an instrument
that evaluates in a global way the spinal column in a standing position. For that purpose, a complete
innovative and non-invasive system – the Vertebral Metrics – has been built. The Vertebral Metrics is a
semi-automatic equipment designed to identify the spatial position of each spinal process from the first
cervical to the first sacral vertebra. Using a camera and a laser diode the recognition is achieved with
software capable of distinguishing prominent blue marks that identifies each spinous process. After the
validation process it was concluded that the Vertebral Metrics is a reliable and valid instrument. However,
the time required for a completely scan is still too long for practical use. Thus, we are presently working on
the automation of this medical device by developin
g a new prototype. The process will comprise several
modifications in the equipment as the introduction of fluorescent markers, UV lights and two video
cameras. The identification of the vertebras will be performed by the stereo vision method. The software
must be adapted to the new assembly.
(More)