Carestream, CurveBeam to spread word about weight-bearing CT

Updated 12/31/2019
Radiology Business Journal, Dr. Bob Baravarian, University Foot and Ankle Institute

CurveBeam and Carestream Health signaled their commitment to weight-bearing computed tomography (CT) by announcing a collaborative effort to support education and research of the burgeoning modality.

 

Until recently, capturing weight-bearing CT images of the lower extremities was impossible. Most CT scanners required patients to lie down, and equipment that compressed the foot to simulate the forces of standing was a poor substitute for the real thing. If a clinician wanted information about the biomechanics of a patient’s joints, they were forced to use x-Ray, missing the fine-grain anatomic information provided by CT.

 

However, a 2012 Finnish study demonstrated the clinical viability of weight bearing CT for the first time, thanks to a prototype portable cone-beam CT scanner (CBCT). The prototype design allows the gantry arm to be tilted horizontal and lowered to the floor, letting patients stand during the procedure.

 

Several studies have since investigated the utility of weight-bearing CT for specific applications, finding the modality useful for biomechanical evaluation and preoperative planning. Adding 3D into the mix provides even more value, according to Bob Baravarian, MD, Chief of Podiatric Surgery at UCLA Medical Center.

 

“I can remember one time when I performed a replacement on a healthy, active patient with an arthritic ankle. I ordered 3D CT scans in preparation for the surgery, and found to my surprise that he had a completely hollow distal tibia and talus: absolutely no bones in the regions,” wrote Baravarian in blog post for the University Foot & Ankle Institute. “If I operated on this patient 5 years ago, I would have found myself in the operating room with a disaster on my hands. This case taught me that the planning phase is no longer an option—it’s actually the most important phase of treatment.”

 

Carestream and CurveBeam will work together to support the Weight-Bearing CT International Study Group, who recently met during the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) 2017 Annual Meeting. Several members presented research and discussed creating standardized protocols for measurement and analysis.

 

“Significant clinical research has already demonstrated weight-bearing CT has the potential to be the new standard of care for an initial diagnosis,” said Vinti Singh, Marketing Manager for CurveBeam. “However, much work remains to be done to increase awareness among orthopedic specialists."

17,451 Total 1st Party Reviews / 4.9 out of 5 Stars
  • Google
    I recommend this place! Very clean & professional. My experience was a 5* one
    Porut D.
  • GatherUp
    Dr Briskin is an awesome Dr and surgeon. He is on time, takes care of business at hand and has a great sense of humor. The pers...
    Debra B.
  • GatherUp
    Very pleased! Good customer service! Good timing! Good Professional services!
    Juan L.
  • GatherUp
    I was disappointed that the X-ray machine went down that day, and the whole reason I drove from West Hills to Westlake Village ...
    Christopher S.
  • GatherUp
    I would appreciate a slight bit more time with the doctor and to feel like my questions can be fully answered. I felt a bit rus...
    Austin J.
  • Yelp
    I have been suffering for a long time with pain in my toes. Thought it was just something I would have to deal with, my mom can...
    Amanda W.
  • Yelp
    This place is a mess. I had a really bad physical therapist here once. She made my feet worse. Meanwhile, Dr. Baravarian spends...
    Sissy H.
  • GatherUp
    great doctor
    Jacqueline G.
  • GatherUp
    We had a great experience! Dr Franson treated my 17 year old with respect and relatability. We both appreciated him very much.
    Nancy W.
  • GatherUp
    Always satisfied with my visit.
    Thank you!
    Lisa T.
  • GatherUp
    Great. Very helpful with my problems.
    Craig C.
  • GatherUp
    Everyone was very kind and professional. Great team. Thanks
    Gary W.
Same Day Appointments
Now Available!

Or call 877-989-9110

24 hours a day, 7 days a week