Overcoming challenges associated with upright imaging of the cervicothoracic junction: a case report involving a novel repurposing of the O-arm.

BACKGROUND

Prior to the mobilization of patients with spinal fractures following treatment, it is important to confirm stability in the upright position.

METHODS

A patient presented with T2 and T3 vertebral body fractures visible on recumbent CT. Supine and upright plain x-rays with additional swimmer's views were deemed suboptimal prior to mobilization. The default configuration of the O-arm was modified to enable imaging in the upright position.

RESULTS

Images utilizing the O-arm were satisfactory and anatomic alignment confirmed in an upright position. It is believed that this is the first time the O-arm has been used for upright diagnostic imaging (off-label application). Excellent visualization of the cervicothoracic junction and upper thoracic regions was obtained in the desired upright position.

CONCLUSION

The O-arm was used successfully to image spinal trauma in the upright position and may represent a new application of the device, potentially fulfilling a frequently unmet medical imaging need.