OBJECTIVETo obtain the spinal anatomic data of children for the development of implants used for scoliosis correction in children.

METHODSTwelve children cadaver spines (C(3)-L(5)) were separated into single vertebrae after CT scanning of the specimens. The transverse and sagittal pedicle length, transverse and sagittal pedicle angle, pedicle length versus spinal level were measured with either electronic vernier caliper or on reconstructed 3D model of the spine.

RESULTSThe transverse pedicle length, sagittal pedicle length, transverse pedicle angle, sagittal pedicle angle and pedicle length were significantly different among cervical, thoracic and lumbar groups, and these data suggest significant differences of children's pedicle from the documented adult spine data.

CONCLUSIONThe measurement can provide basic anatomic data for the development of the implant for scoliosis correction in children.