EOS imaging is an advanced, low-dose imaging system that captures high-quality, full-body X-ray images while you stand in a natural, weight-bearing position.
It is especially useful for assessing the spine and the alignment of the whole skeleton, using only a fraction of the radiation dose of a conventional X-ray. At Jones Radiology, EOS imaging is performed and interpreted by specialist radiologists.
What is EOS imaging?
EOS is a low-dose imaging system that uses two X-ray beams at the same time to capture front and side images of the body in a single pass. Unlike a standard X-ray taken lying down, an EOS scan is performed in a standing, weight-bearing position, so it shows the spine and skeleton as they naturally bear load. The result is a set of high-quality 2D images of the full spine, full lower limb or whole body, which can also be used to create a 3D reconstruction of the spine and lower limbs. Because it captures the whole body in one scan, EOS avoids the need to stitch several separate X-ray images together.
How is EOS different from a standard X-ray or CT scan?
EOS imaging offers several advantages over conventional radiology techniques:
- Low radiation dose. EOS uses a much lower radiation dose than a conventional X-ray, and a far lower dose than CT scans, while still producing high-quality images.
- Weight-bearing, standing position. Imaging in a natural standing position shows the true alignment of the spine and lower limbs under load, which a scan taken lying down cannot.
- Full-body in one scan. EOS can capture the entire body, head to feet, in a single acquisition, making it ideal for assessing overall posture and alignment.
- 2D and 3D. The 2D images can be used to build a 3D model of the spine and skeleton to support detailed assessment and surgical planning.
When is EOS imaging used?
EOS imaging is often requested for orthopaedic and spinal assessment. It may be used to help diagnose, measure and monitor conditions such as:
- scoliosis and other spinal deformity
- spinal alignment and posture
- lower-limb alignment and leg-length differences
- orthopaedic and surgical planning, including before and after surgery
- Because EOS shows the whole skeleton in a weight-bearing position, it is particularly valuable when alignment across the spine, hips, knees and legs needs to be assessed together.
A lower radiation dose, ideal for ongoing and paediatric imaging
The low radiation dose is one of the most important benefits of EOS imaging. Conditions such as scoliosis often need repeated imaging over time to monitor any change, so keeping each scan’s dose as low as possible matters. This makes EOS especially well suited to children and adolescents (paediatric imaging) and to anyone who needs regular follow-up scans.
What happens during an EOS scan
- A radiographer will explain the scan and help you into the EOS cabin.
- You will then stand in a natural, weight-bearing position while the system slowly captures images from head to feet. The EOS scanner is open at the front, so it does not feel enclosed like some other scanners.
- The scan itself only takes a short time – usually around 20 seconds, and the appointment is usually quick.
- There is no injection and no contrast dye, and you can go home straight after your scan.
- A specialist radiologist reviews your images and sends a report to your referring doctor.
Preparation for your EOS scan
There is no preparation required for an EOS X-ray.
You may be asked to remove some of your clothes and jewellery so they don’t get in the way of the image and potentially hide an important finding. If clothes are to be removed you will be given a gown to wear.
Is EOS imaging safe?
EOS imaging uses X-rays, but at a much lower radiation dose than conventional X-ray and far lower than CT. For the conditions it is used to assess, the low dose is a key reason EOS is chosen, particularly for children and for people who need repeat imaging over time.
EOS imaging at Jones Radiology
As a 100% doctor-owned South Australian radiology practice, Jones Radiology offers EOS imaging interpreted by specialist local radiologists. EOS imaging is available at our Calvary Adelaide Hospital clinic. With a referral from your doctor, our team can help you book your EOS scan and guide you through the process.
Related procedures
Depending on what your doctor needs to assess, EOS imaging may be used alongside other tests, such as standard X-ray, CT, or MRI of the spine. See our imaging services for the full range of scans available at Jones Radiology.
FAQs
How much radiation does an EOS scan use?
EOS uses a much lower radiation dose than a conventional X-ray, and a far lower dose than a CT scan, while still producing high-quality images. This is one of the main reasons it is chosen, especially for children and repeat scans.
Why is the scan done standing up?
Imaging in a standing, weight-bearing position shows the true alignment of your spine and lower limbs under load. This gives information that a scan taken lying down cannot.
Is EOS suitable for children?
Yes. Because of its low radiation dose, EOS is well suited to paediatric imaging and to monitoring conditions such as scoliosis that may need repeated scans over time.
Do I need a referral for an EOS scan?
Yes. EOS imaging requires a referral from your GP, specialist or treating doctor. Once you have a referral, our team can help you book.
How long does an EOS scan take?
Total scan time for a full spine, including frontal and lateral views, takes about 20 seconds, and the appointment is usually quick. There is no injection or contrast dye, and you can go home straight afterwards.
Where is EOS imaging available at Jones Radiology?
EOS imaging is available at our Calvary Adelaide Hospital clinic.
Are you ready to make your EOS Imaging appointment?
Our online booking platform allows you to quickly and easily make an appointment online.
