Cincinnati Children’s Radiology Department is proud to introduce the EOS: Low Dose Imaging System. The EOS Imaging System, now available at the hospital, is an innovative new two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) method that uses low-radiation dose technology to evaluate children with spine, hip and lower limb disorders. Cincinnati Children’s is the first hospital in the state of Ohio to have this new technology, and one of only 70 or so hospitals worldwide. This exciting advancement in imaging is truly cutting edge and will certainly change the outcome for your child.
The whole EOS process is very simple. Your child steps up into the open box scanner and remains standing for the imaging. There is a handlebar for stabilization and, as always, any additional caregivers are given a lead apron for protection to allow them to stay in the exam room safely. While standing upright in his or her natural position, your child can have images taken in two angles at the same time. It is important that your child hold still for about 3-15 seconds for the imaging to take place. If your child can stand still for this short period of time, then images that extend from the neck to the ankles can be captured simultaneously from the front and side. Finally, after all the pictures are taken, 3D models can be made from the images and measurements of spine curves or leg lengths can be computer-generated.
One of the major benefits of EOS is that since your child is in weight-bearing position, your physician can use the images to evaluate your child’s posture and balance. They can be used to make a treatment plan and to follow your child’s progress over time in addition to providing information that might be needed to plan a surgery.
Safety is always the radiology department’s highest priority, and with this new EOS technology, there are many safety benefits. Because long-term radiation exposure is constantly a concern, this low-dose technique is particularly helpful for children who might need frequent imaging assessments, like those who need to have their scoliosis curves followed. The EOS x-ray scanner uses less radiation than conventional x-rays and CT’s but cannot completely replace conventional x-rays because it is not suitable for observing individual bones.
As Cincinnati Children’s continually strives to offer the highest quality imaging studies with the lowest possible radiation dose, the EOS system offers one more method to help your physician take the best care of your child.
Contributed by Dr. Tal Laor, Susan Smith (RT), Terri Conely (RT), Julie Boesch (RT) and edited by Tony Dandino (RT).
Thank you for publishing this article. It was very helpful in planning our upcoming trip to Radiology dept at Childrens for a EOS Xray for my child!
Best Regards,