Using ultrasound to screen for scoliosis in female school children in Hong Kong
Using Radiation-free Ultrasound for Screening Scoliosis Among Female School Children in Hong Kong to Reduce Unnecessary X-ray Exposure
This study is testing if a safe ultrasound method can effectively screen for scoliosis in female school children in Hong Kong without using harmful x-rays.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 442 (estimated) |
| Ages | 8 Years to 14 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | Chinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Trial ID | NCT06828068 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a radiation-free ultrasound system for screening scoliosis among female school children in Hong Kong. The primary goal is to determine if this ultrasound method can accurately identify children with a Cobb angle greater than 20°, thereby reducing unnecessary x-ray exposure. Additionally, the study will assess whether the Angle of Trunk Rotation (ATR) can enhance the accuracy of ultrasound assessments. This approach seeks to improve the scoliosis screening protocol by minimizing radiation risks associated with traditional x-ray examinations.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are female school children in Hong Kong who are part of the Student Health Service screening program and are recommended for radiographic assessment.
Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit from this study include those with certain physical conditions, such as a BMI of 25 kg/m2 or higher, or those with skin diseases or spinal irregularities that affect ultrasound scanning.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce unnecessary x-ray exposure for school children while maintaining effective scoliosis screening.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using ultrasound for scoliosis screening, but this specific approach is relatively novel in the context of reducing x-ray exposure.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: i. School children in Hong Kong attending School Screening Program provided by Student Health Service ii. Recommended for radiographic assessment in the scoliosis screening program iii. Female with year since menarche of equal to or less than 9 months Exclusion Criteria: i. Patients with standing height \<1 m, or \>2 m ii. Patients with body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m2 iii. Subjects with skin diseases iv. Subjects with fracture or wound that affect ultrasound scanning v. Subjects with ferromagnetic implants vi. Subjects with surgery done for the spine vii. Subjects with winged scapula or other irregularity of back contour that affect ultrasound scanning viii. Subjects who cannot stand steadily during scanning ix. Subjects with allergy to ultrasound gel
Where this trial is running
Hong Kong
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong — Hong Kong, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Tsz-ping Lam, FHKAM(Ortho Surg) — Chinese University of Hong Kong
- Study coordinator: Tsz-ping Lam, FHKAM(Ortho Surg)
- Email: tplam@cuhk.edu.hk
- Phone: 852-35052724
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.