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"The DOC!"©
Digitizing Radiographic Analysis for the Orthospinologist in Chiropractic
"The DOC!"© is an advanced computer assisted x-ray analysis device that is capable of measuring vertebral misalignment in the upper cervical spine accurately to 2/100 of an inch. It was designed and developed by Dr. Roderic Rochester in 1993. Copies have been sold throughout the U.S., Canada and Korea.
Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
Q: How does the computer get the information off the x-ray?
A: The x-ray is placed on a Numonics back light digitizing tablet. This tablet is like a view box. It has a computer mouse with a window cross hair sight attached. The mouse is placed on the x-ray. The cross hair sight is "aimed" at the structure on the x-ray, that you want digitized. The "enter" button on the mouse is pushed and the computer stores the X,Y coordinate of that structure. Instead of placing "dots" on the x-ray, the computer remembers were all the dots are. The lateral film is analyzed first. The nasium and vertex follow. Once all the data points have been entered, the "F2" button is pressed to calculate the alignment and Height Factors needed.
Q: What computer is recommended for use with "The DOC!"©?
A: We recommend a 386 or better, IBM compatible computer, printer and monitor. "The DOC!"© uses a high order mathematical algorithm to calculate the central skull line. On a 286 computer without a math co-processor, the calculation time is around 90 seconds. On a 486 computer running at 66 mHz or faster and a math co-processor chip, the calculation time is 1 second.
Q: Is it difficult to connect the tablet to the computer?
A: No, it is quite easy. You will need to have one COM port available on the back of your computer. The tablet should plug right into the COM port and you finger tighten two screws— that's it.
Q: How long will it take to become proficient at using the program?
A: That can vary from individual to individual. I recommend reading the manual before attempting to analyze any film. Next, you will need to analyze about 10 sets of film for practice. Compare "The DOC!"© answers with what you have read manually. The Atlas Laterality should be within .5 degrees when you compare multiple readings of the same film.
Q: Can we charge for x-ray digitization?
A: I do not charge a separate fee in my office, however, there is a CPT code that can be used to charge separately for x-ray digitization with report. Insurance coverage may vary.
Q: Has there been any published research using "The DOC!"©?
A: Yes, four separate studies have been completed using "The DOC!"© system. The first was published in 1994 in the "Chiropractic Research Journal", a indexed, peer reviewed journal published by Life College. The title is: "Inter and Intra Examiner Reliability of the Upper Cervical X-Ray Marking System: A Third and Expanded Look" by Roderic P. Rochester, D.C. The second paper is to be published this year in the Chiropractic Research Journal and is entitled: "Patient Placement Error in Rotation and Its Affect on the Upper Cervical Measuring System" by Roderic P. Rochester, D.C. and Ed Owens, M.S., D.C. Another study was done by Ed Owens, M.S., D.C. and the Life College Research Department. This study was the first ever Accuracy study done for the measurement of atlas laterality. The results were presented at the 1995 Upper Cervical Conference at Life College. The latest study was also coordinated by Ed Owens, M.S., D.C. for the Academy of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Organizations (AUCCO). It was a inter examiner reliability study done comparing Grostic/Orthospinology, Orthogonality and NUCCA doctors for the measurement of atlas laterality. The results were presented and the October 1995 annual meeting of the AUCCO.
Q: Who can we call for support for "The DOC!"©?
A: Roderic P. Rochester, D.C. (706) 839-1005. I will be more than happy to consult with you, to get things up and running. (2 hrs. free then $25/hr. thereafter)
Q: What is the cost of "The DOC!"©?
A: There are several x-ray digitizing systems on the market that vary in price from about $6000.00 to $40,000.00. None of these systems are capable of measuring for the Grostic/Orthospinology model of the atlas subluxation. "The DOC!"©'s price is intentionally held low at $3499.00 so that virtually every practice can have access to this advanced technology!
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