Open source posturography

Acta Otolaryngol. 2016 Dec;136(12):1225-1229. doi: 10.1080/00016489.2016.1204665. Epub 2016 Jul 6.

Abstract

Conclusion: The proposed validation goal of 0.9 in intra-class correlation coefficient was reached with the results of this study. With the obtained results we consider that the developed software (RombergLab) is a validated balance assessment software. The reliability of this software is dependent of the used force platform technical specifications.

Objective: Develop and validate a posturography software and share its source code in open source terms.

Methods: Prospective non-randomized validation study: 20 consecutive adults underwent two balance assessment tests, six condition posturography was performed using a clinical approved software and force platform and the same conditions were measured using the new developed open source software using a low cost force platform. Intra-class correlation index of the sway area obtained from the center of pressure variations in both devices for the six conditions was the main variable used for validation.

Results: Excellent concordance between RombergLab and clinical approved force platform was obtained (intra-class correlation coefficient =0.94). A Bland and Altman graphic concordance plot was also obtained. The source code used to develop RombergLab was published in open source terms.

Keywords: COP area calculation; Confidence ellipse; Xcode; force platform; objective-c; open source software; posturography; validation.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Validation Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Diagnostic Techniques, Neurological
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Otolaryngology
  • Postural Balance*
  • Prospective Studies
  • Software Validation*
  • Young Adult