Overcoming challenges associated with upright imaging of the cervicothoracic junction: a case report involving a novel repurposing of the O-arm

Background Prior to the mobilization of patients with spinal fractures following treatment, it is important to confirm stability in the upright position. Methods A patient presented with T2 and T3 vertebral body fractures visible on recumbent CT. Supine and upright plain x‐rays with additional swimmer's views were deemed suboptimal prior to mobilization. The default configuration of the O‐arm was modified to enable imaging in the upright position. Results Images utilizing the O‐arm were satisfactory and anatomic alignment confirmed in an upright position. It is believed that this is the first time the O‐arm has been used for upright diagnostic imaging (off‐label application). Excellent visualization of the cervicothoracic junction and upper thoracic regions was obtained in the desired upright position. Conclusion The O‐arm was used successfully to image spinal trauma in the upright position and may represent a new application of the device, potentially fulfilling a frequently unmet medical imaging need. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.