John Robert Cobb

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

John Robert Cobb (1903–1967) was an American orthopedic surgeon renowned for his contributions to the field of scoliosis treatment. He is best known for developing the Cobb angle, a measurement used to quantify the degree of spinal deformities, particularly in scoliosis patients.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

John Robert Cobb was born in 1903. He pursued his medical education at Harvard Medical School, where he developed an interest in orthopedic surgery. After completing his medical degree, Cobb undertook further training in orthopedic surgery, which laid the foundation for his future contributions to the field.

Career[edit | edit source]

Cobb's career was primarily centered around the treatment of spinal deformities. He worked at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, where he conducted extensive research on scoliosis. His work led to the development of the Cobb angle, a method for measuring the curvature of the spine on an X-ray.

Cobb Angle[edit | edit source]

The Cobb angle is a crucial diagnostic tool in the assessment of scoliosis. It is determined by drawing lines parallel to the superior endplate of the uppermost vertebra and the inferior endplate of the lowest vertebra involved in the curvature. The angle formed at the intersection of these lines is the Cobb angle, which helps in determining the severity of scoliosis and guiding treatment decisions.

Contributions to Orthopedics[edit | edit source]

Cobb's contributions to orthopedics extend beyond the Cobb angle. He was involved in the development of various surgical techniques and treatments for spinal deformities. His work has had a lasting impact on the field, influencing both clinical practice and research in scoliosis treatment.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

John Robert Cobb's legacy in the field of orthopedics is significant. The Cobb angle remains a standard measurement in the diagnosis and treatment of scoliosis. His contributions have improved the understanding and management of spinal deformities, benefiting countless patients worldwide.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

External Links[edit | edit source]


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