A method and system for measuring bone density in different positions of a scoliosis patient in adolescence

Abstract

The application discloses a method and system for measuring bone density of a patient with scoliosis in different positions, and the method comprises the following steps: introducing a CT image of the patient into 3D-sclier software, generating a preliminary three-dimensional model by using threshold selection and region cutting functions, erasing redundant tissues by region cutting, and trimming a vertebral body plane to complete reconstruction of a scoliosis vertebral body; based on the scoliosis vertebral body, the model is repaired layer by layer, and defects are filled and dyed; in ANSYS software, tetrahedral finite element reconstruction is performed according to geometric data of the reconstructed three-dimensional model to generate a three-dimensional finite element scoliosis model with bone density assignment; the finite element scoliosis model is introduced into Paraview software, a target layer is selected by using a cutting function, and the vertebral body is dyed; an area of interest is demarcated on the determined target layer, specific values of bone density in the area of interest are measured, and an average bone density value is calculated.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The application relates to the technical field of measuring bone mineral density of patients with scoliosis in different positions, in particular to a method and system for measuring bone mineral density of patients with scoliosis in different positions. BACKGROUND

[0002] Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a complex, three-dimensional (3D) spinal deformity with unknown etiology. Patients with scoliosis are often accompanied by osteopenia and osteoporosis. The current conventional method for measuring bone mineral density (BMD) is dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The BMD measured by DXA is currently recognized by the international academic community as the "gold standard" for the diagnosis of osteoporosis. The detection principle of DXA is that there is a difference in the absorption of two different energy X-rays by bone and its surrounding soft tissue. The DXA instrument will emit a low-dose X-ray with two energy peaks on the arm or torso bone on the workbench, one energy peak is mainly absorbed by soft tissue, and the other is mainly absorbed by bone. Through this method, the soft tissue part can be quickly subtracted from the total amount of the entire arm or torso, and the X-ray penetration of the bone is obtained, and the bone mineral density of this part can be obtained through a software algorithm.

[0003] DXA can only measure the density of the distal radius, lower lumbar vertebrae and femur. Due to rib shielding or unclear imaging, DXA cannot be used to measure the bone density of thoracic vertebrae. In patients with scoliosis, it is especially difficult to obtain a clear image of the thoracic vertebrae. Some scholars have tried to convert the Hounsfield unit (HU) 50 value of the computed tomography (CT) cross-sectional image into a BMD value; but the results differ greatly and have no clinical significance. SUMMARY

[0004] The application provides a method and system for measuring bone mineral density of patients with scoliosis in different positions, aiming to solve the problem that the prior art cannot comprehensively measure bone mineral density and the measured results differ greatly.

[0005] In a first aspect, a method for measuring bone mineral density of patients with scoliosis in different positions is applied for non-diagnostic purposes, and the method comprises the following steps:

[0006] Importing a CT image of a patient into 3D-sclier software, using threshold selection and region cutting functions to generate a preliminary three-dimensional model, and selecting a spinal main body and other bone structures to perform preliminary model reconstruction;

[0007] On the basis of the preliminary model, excess tissue is removed by region cutting, and the vertebral body plane is trimmed and the rib and upper limb irrelevant tissue is removed to complete the scoliosis spinal vertebral body reconstruction, wherein the excess tissue includes the skull, the pelvis and the rib.

[0008] Based on the scoliosis vertebral body, the model is repaired layer by layer, the defective stains are filled, and the excess stains are erased by a third-party tool to complete the vertebral body material.

[0009] In ANSYS software, tetrahedral finite element reconstruction is performed based on the reconstructed three-dimensional model geometric data to generate a three-dimensional finite element scoliosis model with bone density assignment.

[0010] The finite element model of scoliosis was imported into Paraview software. The target layer was selected by cutting and the vertebral body was stained.

[0011] Define the region of interest on the target plane, measure the specific value of bone mineral density within the region of interest, and calculate the average bone mineral density value.

[0012] Optionally, in the above scheme, importing the patient's CT images into 3D-Sclier software, using threshold selection and region cutting functions to generate a preliminary three-dimensional model, and selecting the main body of the spine and other bone structures for preliminary model reconstruction includes:

[0013] The CT images are used to provide detailed information about the spine;

[0014] CT images are imported into 3D-slicer software, and the threshold selection function is used to extract the bone tissue of interest. The threshold selection is a pixel gray value-based method used to separate bone tissue from other soft tissues. Based on the threshold selection, a preliminary three-dimensional model is generated.

[0015] Optionally, in the above scheme, the step of removing excess tissue by regional cutting and reshaping the vertebral plane based on the preliminary model to complete the scoliosis vertebral reconstruction includes:

[0016] Based on the preliminary model, the region cutting function is used to select the vertebral bodies of the scoliosis spine, and the morphology of the vertebral bodies of the scoliosis spine is modified. The model is modified and cleaned by drawing and erasing tools to complete the reconstruction of the vertebral bodies of the scoliosis spine.

[0017] The vertebral body morphology modification includes the removal of tissues unrelated to the vertebral body, including muscle and fat.

[0018] Optionally, in the above scheme, the step of using the region cutting function to select the vertebrae of the scoliosis includes:

[0019] The cervical vertebrae and skull were completely erased at the C7-T1 interspace; the cervical vertebrae and skull were erased alternately at two angles, sagittal and coronal.

[0020] The pelvis and both hip joints were completely erased in the L5 and S1 space; the process was carried out simultaneously in the coronal and sagittal planes.

[0021] In the coronal view, the ribs, upper limbs, and shoulder joints are removed approximately 1 cm from the scoliosis spine to obtain the vertebral body of the scoliosis spine.

[0022] Optionally, in the above scheme, after removing the ribs, upper limbs, and shoulder joints approximately 1 cm beside the scoliosis in the coronal plane to obtain the vertebral body of the scoliosis, the method further includes:

[0023] Identify the remaining ribs and rib heads;

[0024] When selecting the plane of influence of the residual ribs and the residual rib heads and dividing the vertebral body, the residual ribs and the residual rib heads are removed at the costochondral joints during the reshaping of the vertebral body shape of the scoliosis.

[0025] Optionally, in the above scheme, the step of performing tetrahedral finite element reconstruction based on the reconstructed three-dimensional model geometric data in ANSYS software to generate a three-dimensional finite element scoliosis model with bone density assignment includes:

[0026] Import the repaired and stained 3D model into ANSYS software. ANSYS is a finite element analysis software used to build and analyze finite element models of complex structures. In ANSYS, tetrahedral meshes are used to generate finite element models, and at the same time as generating the model, a corresponding bone density value is assigned to each mesh element.

[0027] Optionally, in the above scheme, the step of delineating a region of interest on a defined target surface, measuring the specific value of bone mineral density within the region of interest, and calculating the average bone mineral density value includes:

[0028] On a defined cross-section, the region of interest is delineated. The region of interest is drawn on the cross-section using drawing tools and is limited to the spinal bone tissue. The bone density of the entire region of interest is obtained by calculating the bone density value of each grid cell within the region of interest and taking the average value.

[0029] After measuring the bone mineral density values ​​of each grid cell within the region of interest, the average bone mineral density value of the region of interest is calculated by weighted averaging.

[0030] Secondly, a system for measuring bone mineral density at different locations in adolescent scoliosis patients, the system comprising a CT scanner and a data processing computer, the CT scanner being connected to the data processing computer:

[0031] The CT scanner is used to acquire the patient's CT images and send the patient's CT images to the data processing computer;

[0032] The data processing computer is used to implement the method described in any of the first aspects.

[0033] Thirdly, a computer device includes a memory and a processor, the memory storing a computer program, the processor executing the computer program to implement the method of any one of the first aspects.

[0034] Fourthly, a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the method described in any one of the first aspects.

[0035] Compared with the prior art, this application has at least the following beneficial effects:

[0036] Based on further analysis and research of existing technical problems, this application recognizes the limitations of existing technologies in comprehensively measuring bone mineral density and the significant discrepancies in measurement results. By importing the patient's CT images into 3D-Sclier software, a preliminary three-dimensional model is generated using threshold selection and region cutting functions. Based on this preliminary model, excess tissue is removed through region cutting, and the vertebral plane is refined to complete the reconstruction of the scoliosis vertebral body. On the basis of the scoliosis vertebral body, the model is repaired layer by layer, and defective areas are filled with staining. In ANSYS software, tetrahedral finite element reconstruction is performed based on the geometric data of the reconstructed three-dimensional model to generate a three-dimensional finite element model of scoliosis with assigned bone mineral density. The finite element model of scoliosis is then imported into Paraview software, where the target layer is selected using the cutting function, and the vertebral body is stained. Regions of interest are defined on the determined target layer surface, and the specific values ​​of bone mineral density within these regions are measured. The average bone mineral density value is calculated, enabling the measurement of bone mineral density at different locations in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients.

[0037] Compared with existing technologies, the reconstruction and analysis of bone mineral density using a three-dimensional finite element model of scoliosis is an accurate and reliable method for measuring specific values. Firstly, three-dimensional finite element simulation measures bone mineral density directly from the bone tissue itself, without relying on imaging images, thus reducing errors caused during the imaging process. Secondly, this study purposefully selects specific planes, solving the problem of unclear targeting in DEXA and CT image measurements. Thirdly, selecting regions of interest within specific planes allows for targeted measurement and comparison of bone mineral density values. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1 A flowchart illustrating a method for measuring bone mineral density at different locations in adolescent scoliosis patients according to an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 2This is a flowchart illustrating a method for measuring bone mineral density at different locations in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients using a three-dimensional finite element model, as provided in one embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0040] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0041] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1 As shown, a method for measuring bone mineral density at different locations in adolescent scoliosis patients is provided, including the following steps:

[0042] The patient's CT images were imported into the 3D-sclier software. Threshold selection and region cutting functions were used to generate a preliminary three-dimensional model. The main body of the spine and other bone structures were selected for preliminary model reconstruction.

[0043] Based on the preliminary model, excess tissue is removed by regional cutting and the vertebral plane is trimmed to complete the reconstruction of the scoliosis vertebral body. The excess tissue includes the skull, pelvis and ribs.

[0044] Based on the scoliosis vertebral body, the model is repaired layer by layer, the defective stains are filled, and the excess stains are erased by a third-party tool to complete the vertebral body material.

[0045] In ANSYS software, tetrahedral finite element reconstruction is performed based on the reconstructed three-dimensional model geometric data to generate a three-dimensional finite element scoliosis model with bone density assignment.

[0046] The finite element model of scoliosis was imported into Paraview software. The target layer was selected by cutting and the vertebral body was stained.

[0047] Define the region of interest on the target plane, measure the specific value of bone mineral density within the region of interest, and calculate the average bone mineral density value.

[0048] In this embodiment, importing the patient's CT images into 3D-Sclier software, using threshold selection and region segmentation functions to generate a preliminary three-dimensional model, and selecting the main spine and other bone structures for preliminary model reconstruction includes:

[0049] The CT images are used to provide detailed information about the spine;

[0050] CT images are imported into 3D-slicer software, and the threshold selection function is used to extract the bone tissue of interest. The threshold selection is a pixel gray value-based method used to separate bone tissue from other soft tissues. Based on the threshold selection, a preliminary three-dimensional model is generated.

[0051] In this embodiment, the process of removing excess tissue through regional cutting and reshaping the vertebral plane based on the preliminary model to complete the scoliosis vertebral reconstruction includes:

[0052] Based on the preliminary model, the region cutting function is used to select the vertebral bodies of the scoliosis spine, and the morphology of the vertebral bodies of the scoliosis spine is modified. The model is modified and cleaned by drawing and erasing tools to complete the reconstruction of the vertebral bodies of the scoliosis spine.

[0053] The vertebral body morphology modification includes the removal of tissues unrelated to the vertebral body, including muscle and fat.

[0054] In this embodiment, the step of using the region cutting function to select the vertebral bodies of the scoliosis includes:

[0055] The cervical vertebrae and skull were completely erased at the C7-T1 interspace; the cervical vertebrae and skull were erased alternately at two angles, sagittal and coronal.

[0056] The pelvis and both hip joints were completely erased in the L5 and S1 space; the process was carried out simultaneously in the coronal and sagittal planes.

[0057] In the coronal view, the ribs, upper limbs, and shoulder joints are removed approximately 1 cm from the scoliosis spine to obtain the vertebral body of the scoliosis spine.

[0058] In this embodiment, after removing the ribs, upper limbs, and shoulder joints approximately 1 cm beside the scoliosis in the coronal plane to obtain the vertebral body of the scoliosis, the method further includes:

[0059] Identify the remaining ribs and rib heads;

[0060] When selecting the plane of influence of the residual ribs and the residual rib heads and dividing the vertebral body, the residual ribs and the residual rib heads are removed at the costochondral joints during the reshaping of the vertebral body shape of the scoliosis.

[0061] In this embodiment, the step of performing tetrahedral finite element reconstruction based on the reconstructed three-dimensional model geometry data in ANSYS software to generate a three-dimensional finite element scoliosis model with bone density assignment includes:

[0062] Import the repaired and stained 3D model into ANSYS software. ANSYS is a finite element analysis software used to build and analyze finite element models of complex structures. In ANSYS, tetrahedral meshes are used to generate finite element models, and at the same time as generating the model, a corresponding bone density value is assigned to each mesh element.

[0063] In this embodiment, the step of delineating a region of interest on a defined target surface, measuring the specific value of bone mineral density within the region of interest, and calculating the average bone mineral density value includes:

[0064] On a defined cross-section, the region of interest is delineated. The region of interest is drawn on the cross-section using drawing tools and is limited to the spinal bone tissue. The bone density of the entire region of interest is obtained by calculating the bone density value of each grid cell within the region of interest and taking the average value.

[0065] After measuring the bone mineral density values ​​of each grid cell within the region of interest, the average bone mineral density value of the region of interest is calculated by weighted averaging.

[0066] In one embodiment, a method for measuring bone mineral density at different locations in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients using a three-dimensional finite element model is proposed, such as... Figure 2 As shown, firstly, a three-dimensional geometric vertebral body model is segmented from CT data. Then, a three-dimensional finite element vertebral body model is created through preprocessing steps, including finite element mesh generation, bone density mapping from CT Hounsfield element (HU) values, and bone density assignment to each finite element. Subsequently, the three-dimensional finite element vertebral body model is sliced ​​along the pedicle plane to obtain a two-dimensional surface mesh, where the node density is determined by interpolating the three-dimensional finite element density. Finally, the density of the ROI (Region of Interest) on the concave and convex sides of the two-dimensional slices is calculated. Further details of the processing are described below:

[0067] Preliminary Model Reconstruction: First, the patient's CT images (DICOM files) are transferred to 3D-Sclier software (opensource, V.4.10.1). Reading the T-spine 1.0 B30f file reveals 3D CT images in coronal, sagittal, and axial planes. Preliminary model generation is performed in the segmentation editor. Select and add segments. First, select a shading threshold for the 3D images to maximize the visibility of each vertebral body layer, ensuring uniform shading or only a few unshaded areas. Ideally, there should be no adhesion between vertebral bodies due to an excessively low shading threshold. After selecting the shading threshold, the model shading is complete. Then, using the shading area selector (island), click on the spine to select the largest shading area (which may include the skull, pelvis, upper limbs, ribs, etc. This may be due to high resolution, very clear tissue boundaries, or an appropriate threshold selection; selecting the shading area can separate irrelevant tissues). Select the spine and other bone structures.

[0068] Scoliosis vertebral body reconstruction: After threshold selection, there may still be other excess tissues, such as the skull, pelvis, and ribs. These excess tissues are removed using the region cutting function (scissors). To accurately reconstruct the scoliosis vertebrae and avoid the influence of excess tissues on the analysis, we completely erased the cervical vertebrae and skull at the C7-T1 interspace, alternating between sagittal and coronal planes to ensure the integrity of the T1 vertebral body. Similarly, we completely erased the pelvis and both hip joints at the L5-S1 interspace, simultaneously refining them in the coronal and sagittal planes to ensure the integrity of the L5 vertebral body. Finally, we erased the ribs, upper limbs, and shoulder joints approximately 1 cm alongside the scoliosis spine in the coronal plane. This step may leave a small portion of ribs and rib heads; these can be left untreated if they do not affect plane selection and vertebral body segmentation. Otherwise, the ribs are erased at the costochondral joints when refining the vertebral planes. We reconstructed the 3D model by selecting segments from T1 to L5 for complete reconstruction. After reconstruction, the entire spine was cut into segments parallel to the endplates in the intervertebral disc plane, dividing all 17 vertebrae of the thoracic and lumbar spine into individual segments to facilitate finite element model analysis.

[0069] Vertebral Body Material Completion: At this point, the second model trimming is largely complete, and vertebral body repair can begin layer by layer. Three-plane positioning is achieved through slice intersection; that is, after selecting a point on one plane, the other two planes also display that point on the same plane, allowing for multi-plane positioning of the same location. Then, starting from the sagittal midline plane and the lowest point plane of L5 on the horizontal plane, the model is repaired layer by layer upwards. If staining defects are found in the L5 cross-section displayed on the horizontal plane, a separate paint tool is used to fill the blank areas with 3-5mm circles, using the same color as the initially selected threshold. If excessive staining is found, such as an excessively large staining area around the vertebral body, or significant adhesion between intervertebral spaces due to a low threshold selection, making the vertebral body unidentifiable, the eraser tool is used to precisely erase the excess vertebral body along the anatomical contour. Otherwise, abnormal staining will affect the density value assigned to the vertebral body, thus affecting the final result. This process is repeated for all 17 thoracic and lumbar vertebrae to ensure that all vertebrae are completely stained without any excess or omissions. This completes the reconstruction of a 3D model of scoliosis. After reconstruction, the entire file, including the VTK file of the scoliosis model and CT image files, is exported for the next step of finite element analysis.

[0070] Finite element model establishment: Based on the reconstructed 3D model geometry data (vtk file), a 3D finite element model of scoliosis is reconstructed in ANSYS (15.0) software using tetrahedral finite element method, which is used to generate the finite element mesh. Only after the mesh is discretized, generating individual finite element elements, can bone density be assigned to each finite element, ultimately resulting in a density distribution map. The corresponding bone density value for each patient is represented by their CT grayscale value, and bone density is assigned to each finite element unit in Bonemat (open sourve, V3.2) software, generating a complete 3D finite element model of scoliosis with assigned bone density (vtk file). At this point, we obtain 3D finite element models of all scoliosis patients with assigned bone density.

[0071] Bone density measurement section selection: The finite element model is imported into Paraview software (open source, V5.70-RC2) for target layer segmentation. In Paraview, the different staining of the vertebral body based on density is already visible. The vertebral body is selected, and the slice function is used to cut it, choosing the plane for bone density measurement. After cutting, the vertebral body cross-section is visible. Further staining based on density is needed for better color value readings in the next step. The color threshold of Pointdens is edited, with a minimum value of 0, a maximum value of 255, and a median value of 125. At this point, a 3D model of the target layer staining is generated. The file is saved as a VTK file and transferred to METLAB software (Mathworks, V 2017a) for final analysis.

[0072] Region of Interest (ROI) Selection: Regions of interest (ROIs) were delineated within the defined plane, and bone mineral density (BMD) values ​​were measured within each ROI. First, a straight line of arbitrary length was drawn alongside the plane to establish a scale. Then, two elliptical ROIs were drawn on either side of the vertebral midline, one end pointing towards the pedicle and the other towards the front of the vertebral body. The size and area of ​​the ellipses were determined using the scale, and the grayscale values ​​of the color differences within the ellipses were extracted and converted into BMD values. Finally, the average BMD value (g / cm²) within the ROI was calculated by dividing the BMD value within the area by the area of ​​the ellipse. We measured the BMD values ​​of the entire spine, the apical vertebra, the area between the upper and lower vertebrae (U / L-EV), the spine above the vertebrae, and the spine below the vertebrae.

[0073] In this embodiment, firstly, the 3D finite element method for measuring bone mineral density (BMD) in adolescent scoliosis is independent of imaging results, and measurements derived from bone tissue reduce errors introduced during the imaging process. Secondly, in this study, we intentionally selected a specific plane to overcome the limitation of unclear targets in DXA and CT image measurements. Thirdly, in the three-dimensional finite element simulation, a Region of Interest (ROI) within a specific plane can be selected, allowing for the measurement and comparison of BMD values.

[0074] Compared with existing technologies, the reconstruction and analysis of bone mineral density using a three-dimensional finite element model of scoliosis is an accurate and reliable method for measuring specific values. Firstly, three-dimensional finite element simulation measures bone mineral density directly from the bone tissue itself, without relying on imaging images, thus reducing errors caused during the imaging process. Secondly, this study purposefully selects specific planes, solving the problem of unclear targeting in DEXA and CT image measurements. Thirdly, selecting regions of interest within specific planes allows for targeted measurement and comparison of bone mineral density values.

[0075] In one embodiment, a system for measuring bone mineral density at different locations in adolescent scoliosis patients is provided, comprising the following program modules:

[0076] Model Reconstruction Module: Used to import the patient's CT images into 3D-sclier software, use threshold selection and region cutting functions to generate a preliminary three-dimensional model, and select the main body of the spine and other bone structures for preliminary model reconstruction;

[0077] Scoliosis vertebral body reconstruction module: Based on the preliminary model, it is used to remove excess tissue by regional cutting, and to trim the vertebral plane and remove irrelevant tissues of the ribs and upper limbs to complete the reconstruction of the scoliosis vertebral body. The excess tissues include the skull, pelvis and ribs.

[0078] Vertebral material completion module: It is used to repair the model layer by layer on the basis of the scoliosis vertebra, fill the defective stains, and remove the excess stains with third-party tools to complete the vertebral material;

[0079] Finite element model building module: Used in ANSYS software to perform tetrahedral finite element reconstruction based on the reconstructed 3D model geometric data, and generate a 3D finite element scoliosis model with bone density assignment.

[0080] Bone density measurement section selection module: used to import finite element scoliosis models into Paraview software, select target layers through the cutting function, and stain the vertebral bodies;

[0081] Region of Interest (ROI) selection module: This module is used to define ROIs on a defined target plane, measure the specific bone mineral density within the ROI, and calculate the average bone mineral density value.

[0082] In this embodiment, importing the patient's CT images into 3D-Sclier software, using threshold selection and region segmentation functions to generate a preliminary three-dimensional model, and selecting the main spine and other bone structures for preliminary model reconstruction includes:

[0083] The CT images are used to provide detailed information about the spine;

[0084] CT images are imported into 3D-slicer software, and the threshold selection function is used to extract the bone tissue of interest. The threshold selection is a pixel gray value-based method used to separate bone tissue from other soft tissues. Based on the threshold selection, a preliminary three-dimensional model is generated.

[0085] In this embodiment, based on the preliminary model, the process of removing excess tissue through regional cutting, reshaping the vertebral plane, and removing irrelevant tissues from the ribs and upper limbs to complete the scoliosis vertebral reconstruction includes:

[0086] Based on the initial model, further region cutting functions are used to select the vertebrae of the scoliosis and refine the vertebral body shape, including removing tissues unrelated to the vertebrae, such as muscles and fat. The model is then refined and cleaned using drawing and erasing tools.

[0087] In this embodiment, the step of performing tetrahedral finite element reconstruction based on the reconstructed three-dimensional model geometry data in ANSYS software to generate a three-dimensional finite element scoliosis model with bone density assignment includes:

[0088] Import the repaired and stained 3D model into ANSYS software. ANSYS is a finite element analysis software used to build and analyze finite element models of complex structures. In ANSYS, tetrahedral meshes are used to generate finite element models, and at the same time as generating the model, a corresponding bone density value is assigned to each mesh element.

[0089] In this embodiment, the step of delineating a region of interest on a defined target surface, measuring the specific value of bone mineral density within the region of interest, and calculating the average bone mineral density value includes:

[0090] On a defined cross-section, the region of interest is delineated. The region of interest is drawn on the cross-section using drawing tools and is limited to the spinal bone tissue. The bone density of the entire region of interest is obtained by calculating the bone density value of each grid cell within the region of interest and taking the average value.

[0091] After measuring the bone mineral density values ​​of each grid cell within the region of interest, the average bone mineral density value of the region of interest is calculated by weighted averaging.

[0092] In one embodiment, a system for measuring bone mineral density at different locations in adolescent scoliosis patients is provided, including a CT scanner and a data processing computer, wherein the CT scanner is connected to the data processing computer.

[0093] The CT scanner is used to acquire the patient's CT images and send the patient's CT images to the data processing computer;

[0094] The data processing computer is used to implement the above-mentioned method for measuring bone mineral density at different locations in adolescent scoliosis patients.

[0095] In one embodiment, a computer device is provided, which may be a server. The computer device includes a processor, memory, and a network interface connected via a system bus. The processor provides computing and control capabilities, and the network interface is used for communication with external terminals via a network connection. The computer device loads and runs a computer program to implement the aforementioned method for measuring bone mineral density at different locations in adolescent scoliosis patients.

[0096] In one embodiment, a computer device is provided, which may be a terminal. The computer device includes a processor, memory, communication interface, display screen, and input device connected via a system bus. The processor provides computing and control capabilities, and the communication interface is used for wired or wireless communication with an external terminal. Wireless communication can be achieved through Wi-Fi, carrier networks, NFC (Near Field Communication), or other technologies. The computer device loads and runs a computer program to implement the aforementioned method for measuring bone mineral density at different locations in adolescent scoliosis patients. The display screen may be an LCD screen or an e-ink screen, and the input device may be a touch layer covering the display screen, buttons, a trackball, or a touchpad mounted on the computer device casing, or an external keyboard, touchpad, or mouse.

[0097] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

Claims

1. A method for measuring bone mineral density at different locations in adolescent scoliosis patients, applied for non-diagnostic purposes, characterized in that, The method includes: The patient's CT images were imported into the 3D-sclier software. Threshold selection and region cutting functions were used to generate a preliminary three-dimensional model. The main body of the spine and other bone structures were selected for preliminary model reconstruction. The threshold selection was made so that each layer of the vertebral body could be clearly seen and there was no adhesion between the vertebral bodies. The region of interest was elliptical, and its area was determined by the scale bar and bounded by the midline of the vertebral body. Based on the preliminary model, excess tissue is removed by regional cutting and the vertebral plane is trimmed to complete the reconstruction of the scoliosis vertebral body. The excess tissue includes the skull, pelvis and ribs. Based on the scoliosis vertebral body, the model is repaired layer by layer, the defective stains are filled, and the excess stains are erased by a third-party tool to complete the vertebral body material. In ANSYS software, tetrahedral finite element reconstruction is performed based on the reconstructed three-dimensional model geometric data to generate a three-dimensional finite element scoliosis model with bone density assignment. The finite element model of scoliosis was imported into Paraview software. The target layer was selected by cutting and the vertebral body was stained. Define the region of interest on the target plane, measure the specific value of bone mineral density within the region of interest, and calculate the average bone mineral density value. Using the region segmentation function, select the vertebrae of the scoliosis spine, including: The cervical vertebrae and skull were completely erased at the C7-T1 interspace; the cervical vertebrae and skull were erased alternately at two angles, sagittal and coronal. The pelvis and both hip joints were completely erased in the L5 and S1 space; the process was carried out simultaneously in the coronal and sagittal planes. In the coronal view, the ribs, upper limbs and shoulder joints are removed about 1 cm away from the scoliosis spine to obtain the vertebral body of the scoliosis spine; After removing the ribs, upper limbs, and shoulder joints approximately 1 cm alongside the scoliosis in the coronal plane to obtain the vertebral body of the scoliosis, the method further includes: Identify the remaining ribs and rib heads; When selecting the plane of influence of the residual ribs and the residual rib heads and dividing the vertebral body, the residual ribs and the residual rib heads are removed at the costochondral joints during the reshaping of the vertebral body shape of the scoliosis.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Based on the preliminary model, excess tissue is removed through regional cutting, and the vertebral plane is trimmed to complete the vertebral reconstruction of the scoliosis spine, including: Based on the preliminary model, the region cutting function is used to select the vertebral bodies of the scoliosis spine, and the morphology of the vertebral bodies of the scoliosis spine is modified. The model is modified and cleaned by drawing and erasing tools to complete the reconstruction of the vertebral bodies of the scoliosis spine. The vertebral body morphology modification includes the removal of tissues unrelated to the vertebral body, including muscle and fat.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The process involves importing the patient's CT images into 3D-Sclier software, using threshold selection and region segmentation functions to generate a preliminary three-dimensional model, selecting the main spine and other bone structures, and performing preliminary model reconstruction, including: The CT images are used to provide detailed information about the spine; CT images are imported into 3D-slicer software, and the threshold selection function is used to extract the bone tissue of interest. The threshold selection is a pixel gray value-based method used to separate bone tissue from other soft tissues. Based on the threshold selection, a preliminary three-dimensional model is generated.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, In ANSYS software, tetrahedral finite element reconstruction is performed based on the reconstructed 3D model geometry data to generate a 3D finite element scoliosis model with bone density assignment, including: Import the repaired and stained 3D model into ANSYS software. ANSYS is a finite element analysis software used to build and analyze finite element models of complex structures. In ANSYS, tetrahedral meshes are used to generate finite element models, and at the same time as generating the model, a corresponding bone density value is assigned to each mesh element.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The process of defining a region of interest on a defined target surface, measuring the specific bone mineral density within the region of interest, and calculating the average bone mineral density value includes: On a defined cross-section, the region of interest is delineated. The region of interest is drawn on the cross-section using drawing tools and is limited to the spinal bone tissue. The bone density of the entire region of interest is obtained by calculating the bone density value of each grid cell within the region of interest and taking the average value. After measuring the bone mineral density values ​​of each grid cell within the region of interest, the average bone mineral density value of the region of interest is calculated by weighted averaging.

6. A system for measuring bone mineral density at different locations in adolescent scoliosis patients, characterized in that, The system includes a CT scanner and a data processing computer, with the CT scanner connected to the data processing computer. The CT scanner is used to acquire the patient's CT images and send the patient's CT images to the data processing computer; The data processing computer is used to implement the steps of the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 4.

7. A computer device comprising a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program, characterized in that, When the processor executes the computer program, it implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

8. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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