Orthospect Module

Simulating an upright position for high-quality MR and CT images of the musculo-skeletal system

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) are common methods for the investigation of pathological processes in the joints and the spine. However, both examinations can only be carried out in supine or prone position, which does not correspond to the physiological conditions in everyday life. Patients with degenerative disorders in the musculoskeletal system commonly suffer from pain during walking, working or other activities, which are caused by a load on discs and joints. In a lying position the joints and the spine are relaxed so that the causative pathology can remain undetected.
Therefore, an investigation of joints and spine under compression is preferable to identify the pathological alteration, e.g. a disk herniation pressing on a nerve or a meniscus luxating in an upright position.

Our Diagnostic Pedal „Orthospect Spine” generates a compression of the musculoskeletal system, permitting more significant MRI or CT examinations in a simulated upright position. During the examination, the patient wears a vest which is tightend with adjustable straps to the Orthospect device. The advantage of our system is a pressure adjustment from outside the shielded room, optionally for both, or only a single leg. Therefore the physician is also able to simulate the load during walking.

Design
The Diagnostic Pedal „Orthospect Spine“ was designed as user-friendly devices for clinical routine examinations. The approximate setup time is less than 5 minutes.