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The EOS 2D/3D X-ray system is a low-dose, orthopaedic radiodiagnostic device based on the Nobel prize-winning X-ray detection technology with a special software for 3D surface reconstruction. The 3D reconstruction provides high-quality, realistic images allowing an accurate quantitative parametric analysis of the scoliotic spine. The vertebra vector concept is introduced to simplify visualization and to facilitate mathematical characterization of the spine, especially in the horizontal plane. Information is presented in this study related to the pre-and postoperative 3D visualization, vertebra vector generation and analysis of data from surface 3D reconstructions and vertebra vector parameters of 95 scoliotic cases that underwent corrective surgery. Visualization of top view images of 3D reconstructed scoliotic spine and horizontal plane views of the spine with vertebra vectors reveals pre- and postoperative rotational changes as well as a significant positional rearrangement and a notable change in lateral ejection of vertebrae. The strongest correlation was found between pre- and postoperative Cobb angle values and coordinate X values of initial and terminal points of apical vertebra vectors, representing their lateral ejection. Similarly strong correlation was shown between the change in Cobb angle values after correction and postoperative changes in the magnitude of lateral ejection. Correlation between axial rotation of apical vertebrae and the Cobb angle value was less signifi cant either before or after surgery, while the postoperative change in axial rotation values showed no correlation with correctional change in Cobb angle values. The use of vertebra vectors enables interpretation of the complex information in images provided by EOS 2D/3D, furnishing a simplified and comprehensible way of visualization and characterization of spinal deformities. Based on the analysis of horizontal plane view data, minimizing vertebral lateral ejection during corrective surgery may become a primary goal while efforts on the absolute reduction of axial rotation seem to be less important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]