In the quest for better methods to treat Kyphosis and Scoliosis of the spine, one innovative company has developed Three-dimensional Model technology, called an ACRM (Anatomically Correct Reference Model) that can greatly enhance the surgeon’s ability to fully analyze the effect of Kyphosis and Scoliosis on the patient’s spine, thereby giving the surgeon an edge that those without Three-dimensional technology lack. As a new technology many Physicians who perform Kyphosis and Scoliosis surgeries may not be aware of this valuable resource as yet. As a patient seeking Kyphosis and Scoliosis treatment you should ask your surgeon if he is aware of this new innovation and if not he/she should consider it.
These 3-D models are created from the information provided by the patient’s own MRI and CT scans of the affected areas. An advantage of 3-D models is that they identify defects that 2-D images do not, which helps the physician do a better job. These models are not rough ideas, they are exact replica models of a patient’s spine and accurate to within 1/35th of a millimeter. This is an industry-changing innovation as it gives the medical provider the opportunity to actually hold this replica of the Scoliosis and Kyphosis spine in their hand and allows them the opportunity to do a pre-surgery evaluation and practice the technique prior to actual operation.
When you have Kyphosis and Scoliosis of the spine, knowing the surgeon you are dealing with stays on top of new technology such as this helps to bring peace of mind when it comes to such a delicate Scoliosis operation. These models can be used to help the medical provider explain to you in detail exactly what they are seeing and exactly what will happen during your treatment for Scoliosis.
Orthpaedic Physicians who are already using the 3D models in their own practices are very pleased with the advantages they are experiencing over 2-D imagery. There is a cost reduction to patients of over $10,000 due to total Scoliosis surgery time being reduced 10-15% since the Physicians have the ability to practice the surgery beforehand. There has also been a reduction in patient recovery time since the surgeon can locate potential problems ahead of time and anticipate them. Patient care can also be optimized now that everyone involved can be made aware of exactly what can be expected and prepared for.
With so many advantages to the patient, it would be to everyone’s benefit if all orthopedic Surgeons began using the 3D model technology developed and marketed as ACRMs. When it comes to something as detailed as your back, you want to know your medical provider is not only highly knowledgable, but also using the most up-to-date technology available.
ACRM Corp is pioneering the production and sales of patient specific, Anatomically Correct, 3-D Reference Models, from CT and MRI scans to assist with cranial or spine surgeries. Visit their website (www.ACRMcorp.com) for more information about how these 3-D models can help your orthopaedic physician in their pre-surgical planning.
