A multipurpose Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis specific short MRI protocol: feasibility study in volunteers.

Motivation: To date, there is no description of an optimal MRI protocol for detection of early changes in the scoliotic spine. Goal(s): The goal is to assess the feasibility of the multi-purpose short MRI protocol based on the MR data of adult volunteers. Approach: Based on the checklist of relevant landmarks, assessment of the volunteer MR data and identification of the landmarks was performed by 3 readers. Results: We have demonstrated that the proposed MRI protocol, covering almost the entire spine in 14 min, is efficient for detection of relevant landmarks for: scoliosis assessment, screening for neural axis abnormalities, and surgical planning and navigation. Impact: A short MRI protocol is developed for accurate assessment of spinal deformity in AIS patients, facilitating the treatment management, monitoring and surgical planning, and simplifying the clinical workflow.