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Bogner B, Wenning M, Jungmann PM, Reisert M, Lange T, Tennstedt M, Klein L, Diallo TD, Bamberg F, Schmal H, Jung M. T1ρ relaxation mapping in osteochondral lesions of the talus: a non-invasive biomarker for altered biomechanical properties of hyaline cartilage? Eur Radiol Exp 2024; 8:83. [PMID: 39046607 PMCID: PMC11269556 DOI: 10.1186/s41747-024-00488-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate T1ρ relaxation mapping in patients with symptomatic talar osteochondral lesions (OLT) and healthy controls (HC) at rest, with axial loading and traction. METHODS Participants underwent 3-T ankle magnetic resonance imaging at rest and with 500 N loading and 120 N traction, without axial traction for a subcohort of 17/29 HC. We used a fast low-angle shot sequence with variable spin-lock intervals for monoexponential T1ρ fitting. Cartilage was manually segmented to extract T1ρ values. RESULTS We studied 29 OLT patients (age 31.7 ± 7.5 years, 15 females, body mass index [BMI] 25.0 ± 3.4 kg/m2) and 29 HC (age 25.2 ± 4.3 years, 17 females, BMI 22.5 ± 2.3 kg/m2. T1ρ values of OLT (50.4 ± 3.4 ms) were higher than those of intact cartilage regions of OLT patients (47.2 ± 3.4 ms; p = 0.003) and matched HC cartilage (48.1 ± 3.3 ms; p = 0.030). Axial loading and traction induced significant T1ρ changes in the intact cartilage regions of patients (loading, mean difference -1.1 ms; traction, mean difference 1.4 ms; p = 0.030 for both) and matched HC cartilage (-2.2 ms, p = 0.003; 2.3 ms, p = 0.030; respectively), but not in the OLT itself (-1.3 ms; p = 0.150; +1.9 ms; p = 0.150; respectively). CONCLUSION Increased T1ρ values may serve as a biomarker of cartilage degeneration in OLT. The absence of load- and traction-induced T1ρ changes in OLT compared to intact cartilage suggests that T1ρ may reflect altered biomechanical properties of hyaline cartilage. TRIAL REGISTRATION DRKS, DRKS00024010. Registered 11 January 2021, https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00024010 . RELEVANCE STATEMENT T1ρ mapping has the potential to evaluate compositional and biomechanical properties of the talar cartilage and may improve therapeutic decision-making in patients with osteochondral lesions. KEY POINTS T1ρ values in osteochondral lesions increased compared to intact cartilage. Significant load- and traction-induced T1ρ changes were observed in visually intact regions and in healthy controls but not in osteochondral lesions. T1ρ may serve as an imaging biomarker for biomechanical properties of cartilage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balázs Bogner
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106, Freiburg, Germany.
- Berta-Ottenstein-Programme, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Markus Wenning
- Department of Orthopedics, BDH Klinik Waldkirch, 79283, Waldkirch, Germany
- Praxis Drescher-Eberbach-Wenning, Orthopedic Surgeons, 79100, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Pia M Jungmann
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Marco Reisert
- Division of Medical Physics, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
- Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, University Medical Center Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Lange
- Division of Medical Physics, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Marcel Tennstedt
- Department of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, University Medical Center Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Lukas Klein
- Department of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, University Medical Center Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thierno D Diallo
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Fabian Bamberg
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hagen Schmal
- Department of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, University Medical Center Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Jung
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
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Rovedo P, Meine H, Hucker P, Taghizadeh E, Izadpanah K, Zaitsev M, Lange T. Time-Resolved Quantification of Patellofemoral Cartilage Deformation in Response to Loading and Unloading via Dynamic MRI With Prospective Motion Correction. J Magn Reson Imaging 2024; 60:175-183. [PMID: 37668040 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.28986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In vivo cartilage deformation has been studied by static magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with in situ loading, but knowledge about strain dynamics after load onset and release is scarce. PURPOSE To measure the dynamics of patellofemoral cartilage deformation and recovery in response to in situ loading and unloading by using MRI with prospective motion correction. STUDY TYPE Prospective. SUBJECTS Ten healthy male volunteers (age: [31.4 ± 3.2] years). FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE T1-weighted RF-spoiled 2D gradient-echo sequence with a golden angle radial acquisition scheme, augmented with prospective motion correction, at 3 T. ASSESSMENT In situ knee loading was realized with a flexion angle of approximately 40° using an MR-compatible pneumatic loading device. The loading paradigm consisted of 2 minutes of unloaded baseline followed by a 5-minute loading bout with 50% body weight and an unloading period of 38 minutes. The cartilage strain was assessed as the mean distance between patellar and femoral bone-cartilage interfaces as a percentage of the initial (pre-load) distance. STATISTICAL TESTS Wilcoxon signed-rank tests (significance level: P < 0.05), Pearson correlation coefficient (r). RESULTS The cartilage compression and recovery behavior was characterized by a viscoelastic response. The elastic compression ([-12.5 ± 3.1]%) was significantly larger than the viscous compression ([-7.6 ± 1.5]%) and the elastic recovery ([10.5 ± 2.1]%) was significantly larger than the viscous recovery ([6.1 ± 1.8]%). There was a significant residual offset strain ([-3.6 ± 2.3]%) across the cohort. A significant negative correlation between elastic compression and elastic recovery was observed (r = -0.75). DATA CONCLUSION The in vivo cartilage compression and recovery time course in response to loading was successfully measured via dynamic MRI with prospective motion correction. The clinical relevance of the strain characteristics needs to be assessed in larger subject and patient cohorts. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 2 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Rovedo
- Division of Medical Physics, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hans Meine
- Medical Image Computing Group, Department of Informatics, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Medicine MEVIS, Bremen, Germany
| | - Patrick Hucker
- Division of Medical Physics, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Elham Taghizadeh
- Medical Image Computing Group, Department of Informatics, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Medicine MEVIS, Bremen, Germany
| | - Kaywan Izadpanah
- Department of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Maxim Zaitsev
- Division of Medical Physics, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Lange
- Division of Medical Physics, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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Tourais J, Ploem T, van Zadelhoff TA, van de Steeg-Henzen C, Oei EHG, Weingartner S. Rapid Whole-Knee Quantification of Cartilage Using T 1, T 2*, and T RAFF2 Mapping With Magnetic Resonance Fingerprinting. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2023; 70:3197-3205. [PMID: 37227911 DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2023.3280115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Quantitative Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) holds great promise for the early detection of cartilage deterioration. Here, a Magnetic Resonance Fingerprinting (MRF) framework is proposed for comprehensive and rapid quantification of T1, T2*, and TRAFF2 with whole-knee coverage. METHODS A MRF framework was developed to achieve quantification of Relaxation Along a Fictitious Field in the 2nd rotating frame of reference ( TRAFF2) along with T1 and T2*. The proposed sequence acquires 65 measurements of 25 high-resolution slices, interleaved with 7 inversion pulses and 40 RAFF2 trains, for whole-knee quantification in a total acquisition time of 3:25 min. Comparison with reference T1, T2*, and TRAFF2 methods was performed in phantom and in seven healthy subjects at 3 T. Repeatability (test-retest) with and without repositioning was also assessed. RESULTS Phantom measurements resulted in good agreement between MRF and the reference with mean biases of -54, 2, and 5 ms for T1, T2*, and TRAFF2, respectively. Complete characterization of the whole-knee cartilage was achieved for all subjects, and, for the femoral and tibial compartments, a good agreement between MRF and reference measurements was obtained. Across all subjects, the proposed MRF method yielded acceptable repeatability without repositioning ( R2 ≥ 0.94) and with repositioning ( R2 ≥ 0.57) for T1, T2*, and TRAFF2. SIGNIFICANCE The short scan time combined with the whole-knee coverage makes the proposed MRF framework a promising candidate for the early assessment of cartilage degeneration with quantitative MRI, but further research may be warranted to improve repeatability after repositioning and assess clinical value in patients.
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Kurz B, Lange T, Voelker M, Hart ML, Rolauffs B. Articular Cartilage-From Basic Science Structural Imaging to Non-Invasive Clinical Quantitative Molecular Functional Information for AI Classification and Prediction. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14974. [PMID: 37834422 PMCID: PMC10573252 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This review presents the changes that the imaging of articular cartilage has undergone throughout the last decades. It highlights that the expectation is no longer to image the structure and associated functions of articular cartilage but, instead, to devise methods for generating non-invasive, function-depicting images with quantitative information that is useful for detecting the early, pre-clinical stage of diseases such as primary or post-traumatic osteoarthritis (OA/PTOA). In this context, this review summarizes (a) the structure and function of articular cartilage as a molecular imaging target, (b) quantitative MRI for non-invasive assessment of articular cartilage composition, microstructure, and function with the current state of medical diagnostic imaging, (c), non-destructive imaging methods, (c) non-destructive quantitative articular cartilage live-imaging methods, (d) artificial intelligence (AI) classification of degeneration and prediction of OA progression, and (e) our contribution to this field, which is an AI-supported, non-destructive quantitative optical biopsy for early disease detection that operates on a digital tissue architectural fingerprint. Collectively, this review shows that articular cartilage imaging has undergone profound changes in the purpose and expectations for which cartilage imaging is used; the image is becoming an AI-usable biomarker with non-invasive quantitative functional information. This may aid in the development of translational diagnostic applications and preventive or early therapeutic interventions that are yet beyond our reach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bodo Kurz
- Department of Anatomy, Christian-Albrechts-University, Otto-Hahn-Platz 8, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Thomas Lange
- Medical Physics Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany;
| | - Marita Voelker
- G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (M.V.); (M.L.H.)
| | - Melanie L. Hart
- G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (M.V.); (M.L.H.)
| | - Bernd Rolauffs
- G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (M.V.); (M.L.H.)
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Siegel M, Taghizadeh E, Fuchs A, Maier P, Schmal H, Lange T, Yilmaz T, Meine H, Izadpanah K. [Influence of the quadriceps muscles on the patellofemoral contact in patients with low flexion patellofemoral instability after MPFL reconstruction]. ORTHOPADIE (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 52:834-842. [PMID: 37567919 PMCID: PMC10539450 DOI: 10.1007/s00132-023-04413-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION MPFL reconstruction represents one of the most important surgical treatment options for recurrent patellar dislocations at low flexion angles associated with low flexion patellofemoral instability. Nevertheless, the role of quadriceps muscles in patients with patellofemoral instability before and after patellofemoral stabilization using MPFL reconstruction has not been fully elucidated. The present study investigates the influence of quadriceps muscles on the patellofemoral contact in patients with low flexion patellofemoral instability (PFI) before and after surgical patellofemoral stabilization using MPFL reconstruction using 3 T MRI datasets in early degrees of flexion (0-30°). METHODS In this prospective cohort study, 15 patients with low flexion PFI before and after MPFL reconstruction and 15 subjects with healthy knee joints were studied using dynamic MRI scans. MRI scans were performed in a custom-made pneumatic knee loading device to determine the patellofemoral cartilage contact area (CCA) with and without quadriceps activation (50 N). Comparative measurements were performed using 3D cartilage and bone meshes in 0-30° knee flexion in the patients with patellofemoral instability preoperatively and postoperatively. RESULTS The preoperative patellofemoral CCA of patients with low flexion PFI was 67.3 ± 47.3 mm2 in 0° flexion, 118.9 ± 56.6 mm2 in 15° flexion, and 267.6 ± 96.1 mm2 in 30° flexion. With activated quadriceps muscles (50 N), the contact area was 72.4 ± 45.9 mm2 in extension, 112.5 ± 54.9 mm2 in 15° flexion, and 286.1 ± 92.7 mm2 in 30° flexion without statistical significance. Postoperatively determined CCA revealed 159.3 ± 51.4 mm2 , 189.6 ± 62.2 mm2 and 347.3 ± 52.1 mm2 in 0°, 15° and 30° flexion. Quadriceps activation with 50 N showed a contact area in extension of 141.0 ± 63.8 mm2, 206.6 ± 67.7 mm2 in 15° flexion, and 353.5 ± 64.6 mm2 in 30° flexion, also without statistical difference compared with unloaded CCAs. Subjects with healthy knee joints showed an increase of 10.3% in CCA at 30° of flexion (p = 0.003). CONCLUSION Although patellofemoral CCA increases significantly after isolated MPFL reconstruction in patients with low flexion patellofemoral instability, there is no significant influence of quadriceps muscles either preoperatively or postoperatively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Siegel
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, Freiburg University Hospital, Albert Ludwigs University Freiburg, Hugstetter Straße 55, 79106, Freiburg, Deutschland.
| | - Elham Taghizadeh
- Institute for Medical Image Computing, Fraunhofer MEVIS, Universitätsallee 29, 28359, Bremen, Deutschland
| | - Andreas Fuchs
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, Freiburg University Hospital, Albert Ludwigs University Freiburg, Hugstetter Straße 55, 79106, Freiburg, Deutschland
| | - Philipp Maier
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, Freiburg University Hospital, Albert Ludwigs University Freiburg, Hugstetter Straße 55, 79106, Freiburg, Deutschland
| | - Hagen Schmal
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, Freiburg University Hospital, Albert Ludwigs University Freiburg, Hugstetter Straße 55, 79106, Freiburg, Deutschland
- Dep. Of Orthopedic Surgery, University Hospital Odense, Sdr. Boulevard 29, 5000, Odense, Dänemark
| | - Thomas Lange
- Division of Medical Physics, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstraße 5a, 79106, Freiburg, Deutschland
| | - Tayfun Yilmaz
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, Freiburg University Hospital, Albert Ludwigs University Freiburg, Hugstetter Straße 55, 79106, Freiburg, Deutschland
| | - Hans Meine
- Institute for Medical Image Computing, Fraunhofer MEVIS, Universitätsallee 29, 28359, Bremen, Deutschland
| | - Kaywan Izadpanah
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, Freiburg University Hospital, Albert Ludwigs University Freiburg, Hugstetter Straße 55, 79106, Freiburg, Deutschland
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Coburn SL, Crossley KM, Kemp JL, Warden SJ, West TJ, Bruder AM, Mentiplay BF, Culvenor AG. Immediate and Delayed Effects of Joint Loading Activities on Knee and Hip Cartilage: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2023; 9:56. [PMID: 37450202 PMCID: PMC10348990 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-023-00602-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of activity-related joint loading on cartilage is not clear. Abnormal loading is considered to be a mechanical driver of osteoarthritis (OA), yet moderate amounts of physical activity and rehabilitation exercise can have positive effects on articular cartilage. Our aim was to investigate the immediate effects of joint loading activities on knee and hip cartilage in healthy adults, as assessed using magnetic resonance imaging. We also investigated delayed effects of activities on healthy cartilage and the effects of activities on cartilage in adults with, or at risk of, OA. We explored the association of sex, age and loading duration with cartilage changes. METHODS A systematic review of six databases identified studies assessing change in adult hip and knee cartilage using MRI within 48 h before and after application of a joint loading intervention/activity. Studies included adults with healthy cartilage or those with, or at risk of, OA. Joint loading activities included walking, hopping, cycling, weightbearing knee bends and simulated standing within the scanner. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Random-effects meta-analysis estimated the percentage change in compartment-specific cartilage thickness or volume and composition (T2 relaxation time) outcomes. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system evaluated certainty of evidence. RESULTS Forty studies of 653 participants were included after screening 5159 retrieved studies. Knee cartilage thickness or volume decreased immediately following all loading activities investigating healthy adults; however, GRADE assessment indicated very low certainty evidence. Patellar cartilage thickness and volume reduced 5.0% (95% CI 3.5, 6.4, I2 = 89.3%) after body weight knee bends, and tibial cartilage composition (T2 relaxation time) decreased 5.1% (95% CI 3.7, 6.5, I2 = 0.0%) after simulated standing within the scanner. Hip cartilage data were insufficient for pooling. Secondary outcomes synthesised narratively suggest knee cartilage recovers within 30 min of walking and 90 min of 100 knee bends. We found contrasting effects of simulated standing and walking in adults with, or at risk of, OA. An increase of 10 knee bend repetitions was associated with 2% greater reduction in patellar thickness or volume. CONCLUSION There is very low certainty evidence that minimal knee cartilage thickness and volume and composition (T2 relaxation time) reductions (0-5%) occur after weightbearing knee bends, simulated standing, walking, hopping/jumping and cycling, and the impact of knee bends may be dose dependent. Our findings provide a framework of cartilage responses to loading in healthy adults which may have utility for clinicians when designing and prescribing rehabilitation programs and providing exercise advice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally L. Coburn
- La Trobe Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Kay M. Crossley
- La Trobe Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Joanne L. Kemp
- La Trobe Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Stuart J. Warden
- La Trobe Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC Australia
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health & Human Sciences, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN USA
| | - Tom J. West
- La Trobe Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Andrea M. Bruder
- La Trobe Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Benjamin F. Mentiplay
- La Trobe Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Adam G. Culvenor
- La Trobe Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC Australia
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Park EH, Fritz J. The role of imaging in osteoarthritis. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2023; 37:101866. [PMID: 37659890 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2023.101866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis is a complex whole-organ disorder that involves molecular, anatomic, and physiologic derangement. Advances in imaging techniques have expanded the role of imaging in evaluating osteoarthritis and functional changes. Radiography, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography (CT), and ultrasonography are commonly used imaging modalities, each with advantages and limitations in evaluating osteoarthritis. Radiography comprehensively analyses alignment and osseous features, while MRI provides detailed information about cartilage damage, bone marrow edema, synovitis, and soft tissue abnormalities. Compositional imaging derives quantitative data for detecting cartilage and tendon degeneration before structural damage occurs. Ultrasonography permits real-time scanning and dynamic joint evaluation, whereas CT is useful for assessing final osseous detail. Imaging plays an essential role in the diagnosis, management, and research of osteoarthritis. The use of imaging can help differentiate osteoarthritis from other diseases with similar symptoms, and recent advances in deep learning have made the acquisition, management, and interpretation of imaging data more efficient and accurate. Imaging is useful in monitoring and predicting the prognosis of osteoarthritis, expanding our understanding of its pathophysiology. Ultimately, this enables early detection and personalized medicine for patients with osteoarthritis. This article reviews the current state of imaging in osteoarthritis, focusing on the strengths and limitations of various imaging modalities, and introduces advanced techniques, including deep learning, applied in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Hae Park
- Division of Musculoskeletal Radiology, Department of Radiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA; Department of Radiology, Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Jeonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jan Fritz
- Division of Musculoskeletal Radiology, Department of Radiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA.
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Siegel M, Taghizadeh E, Lange T, Fuchs A, Yilmaz T, Maier P, Meine H, Schmal H, Izadpanah K. Influence of Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction on Patellofemoral Contact in Patients With Low-Flexion Patellar Instability: An MRI Study. Orthop J Sports Med 2023; 11:23259671231160215. [PMID: 37213660 PMCID: PMC10192662 DOI: 10.1177/23259671231160215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction is a well-established procedure for the treatment of patients with patellofemoral instability (PFI) at low flexion angles (0°-30°). Little is known about the effect of MPFL surgery on patellofemoral cartilage contact area (CCA) during the first 30° of knee flexion. Purpose/Hypothesis The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of MPFL reconstruction on CCA using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We hypothesized that patients with PFI would have a lower CCA than patients with healthy knees and that CCA would increase after MPFL reconstruction over the course of low knee flexion. Study Design Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods In a prospective matched-paired cohort study, the CCA of 13 patients with low-flexion PFI was determined before and after MPFL reconstruction, and the data were compared with those of 13 healthy volunteers (controls). MRI was performed with the knee at 0°, 15°, and 30° of flexion in a custom-designed knee-positioning device. To suppress motion artifacts, motion correction was performed using a Moiré Phase Tracking system via a tracking marker attached to the patella. The CCA was calculated on the basis of semiautomatic cartilage and bone segmentation and registration. Results The CCA (mean ± SD) at 0°, 15°, and 30° of flexion for the control participants was 1.38 ± 0.62, 1.91 ± 0.98, and 3.68 ± 0.92 cm2, respectively. In patients with PFI, the CCA at 0°, 15°, and 30° of flexion was 0.77 ± 0.49, 1.26 ± 0.60, and 2.89 ± 0.89 cm2 preoperatively and 1.65 ± 0.55, 1.97 ± 0.68, and 3.52 ± 0.57 cm2 postoperatively. Patients with PFI exhibited a significantly reduced preoperative CCA at all 3 flexion angles when compared with controls (P ≤ .045 for all). Postoperatively, there was a significant increase in CCA at 0° of flexion (P = .001), 15° of flexion (P = .019) and 30° of flexion (P = .026). There were no significant postoperative differences in CCA between patients with PFI and controls at any flexion angle. Conclusion Patients with low-flexion patellar instability showed a significant reduction in patellofemoral CCA at 0°, 15°, and 30° of flexion. MPFL reconstruction increased the contact area significantly at all angles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Siegel
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and
Traumatology, Freiburg University Hospital, Albert Ludwigs University of Freiburg,
Freiburg, Germany
- Markus Siegel, MD,
Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, Freiburg University Hospital,
Albert Ludwigs University Freiburg, Hugstetter Strasse 55, Freiburg, 79098
Germany ()
| | - Elham Taghizadeh
- Fraunhofer Institute for Digital
Medicine MEVIS, Bremen, Germany
| | - Thomas Lange
- Division of Medical Physics, Department
of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Center–University of Freiburg,
Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Fuchs
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and
Traumatology, Freiburg University Hospital, Albert Ludwigs University of Freiburg,
Freiburg, Germany
| | - Tayfun Yilmaz
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and
Traumatology, Freiburg University Hospital, Albert Ludwigs University of Freiburg,
Freiburg, Germany
| | - Philipp Maier
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and
Traumatology, Freiburg University Hospital, Albert Ludwigs University of Freiburg,
Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hans Meine
- Fraunhofer Institute for Digital
Medicine MEVIS, Bremen, Germany
| | - Hagen Schmal
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and
Traumatology, Freiburg University Hospital, Albert Ludwigs University of Freiburg,
Freiburg, Germany
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery,
University Hospital Odense, Odense, Denmark
| | - Kaywan Izadpanah
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and
Traumatology, Freiburg University Hospital, Albert Ludwigs University of Freiburg,
Freiburg, Germany
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Lange T, Sturm L, Jungmann PM, Jung M, Ovsepyan S, Reisert M, Schmal H, Wenning M. Biomechanical Effects of Chronic Ankle Instability on the Talar Cartilage Matrix: The Value of T1ρ Relaxation Mapping Without and With Mechanical Loading. J Magn Reson Imaging 2023; 57:611-619. [PMID: 35611813 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.28267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND T1ρ mapping has been proposed for the detection of early cartilage degeneration associated with chronic ankle instability (CAI). However, there are limited data surrounding the influence of ankle loading on T1ρ relaxation. PURPOSE To evaluate T1ρ relaxation times of talar cartilage, as an indicator of early degenerative changes, associated with CAI and to investigate the influence of acute axial in situ loading on T1ρ values in CAI patients and healthy controls. STUDY TYPE Prospective. SUBJECTS A total of 9 patients (age = 21.8 ± 2.5 years, male/female = 2/7) with chronic ankle instability and 18 healthy control subjects (age = 22.8 ± 3.6 years, male/female = 5/13). FIELD STRENGTH 3 T. SEQUENCE 3D gradient echo fast low-angle shot (FLASH) sequence augmented with a variable spin-lock preparation period. ASSESSMENT Ankle T1ρ mapping was performed without and with axial loading of 500 N. The talar cartilage was segmented in five coronal slices covering the central talocrural joint. Median talar T1ρ values were separately calculated for the medial and lateral facets. STATISTICAL TESTS Mann-Whitney U and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, significance level: P < 0.05. RESULTS For the combined cohorts, the statistical analysis yielded significantly lower T1ρ values with loading compared to the no-load measurement for both the lateral (no load: [51.0 ± 4.0] msec, load: [49.5 ± 5.4] msec) as well as the medial compartment (no load: [50.0 ± 5.4] msec, load: [47.8 ± 6.8] msec). In the unloaded scans, the CAI patients showed significantly increased talar T1ρ values ([53.0 ± 7.4] mse ) compared to the healthy control subjects ([48.8 ± 4.1] msec) in the medial compartment. DATA CONCLUSION Increased talar T1ρ relaxation times in CAI patients compared to healthy controls suggest that T1ρ relaxation is a sensitive biomarker for CAI-induced early-stage cartilage degeneration. However, the load-induced T1ρ change did not prove to be a viable marker for the altered biomechanical properties of the hyaline talar cartilage. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 2 LEVEL OF EFFICACY: Stage 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Lange
- Division of Medical Physics, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Lukas Sturm
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Pia M Jungmann
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Jung
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Spartak Ovsepyan
- Department of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Marco Reisert
- Division of Medical Physics, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hagen Schmal
- Department of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Markus Wenning
- Department of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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10
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Sveinsson B. Editorial for "Biomechanical Effects of Chronic Ankle Instability on the Talar Cartilage Matrix: The Value of T1ρ Relaxation Mapping Without and With Mechanical Loading". J Magn Reson Imaging 2023; 57:620-621. [PMID: 35639977 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.28269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Bragi Sveinsson
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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11
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Frodl A, Lange T, Siegel M, Meine H, Taghizadeh E, Schmal H, Izadpanah K. Individual Influence of Trochlear Dysplasia on Patellofemoral Kinematics after Isolated MPFL Reconstruction. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12122049. [PMID: 36556269 PMCID: PMC9786691 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12122049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The influence of the MPFL graft in cases of patella instability with dysplastic trochlea is a controversial topic. The effect of the MPFL reconstruction as single therapy is under investigation, especially with severely dysplastic trochlea (Dejour types C and D). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of trochlear dysplasia on patellar kinematics in patients suffering from low flexion patellar instability under weight-bearing conditions after isolated MPFL reconstruction. MATERIAL AND METHODS Thirteen patients were included in this study, among them were eight patients with mild dysplasia (Dejour type A and B) and five patients with severe dysplasia (Dejour type C and D). By performing a knee MRI with in situ loading, patella kinematics and the patellofemoral cartilage contact area could be measured under the activation of the quadriceps musculature in knee flexion angles of 0°, 15° and 30°. To mitigate MRI motion artefacts, prospective motion correction based on optical tracking was applied. Bone and cartilage segmentation were performed semi-automatically for further data analysis. Cartilage contact area (CCA) and patella tilt were the main outcome measures for this study. Pre- and post-surgery measures were compared for each group. RESULTS Data visualized a trending lower patella tilt after MPFL graft installation in both groups and flexion angles of the knee. There were no significant changes in patella tilt at 0° (unloaded pre-surgery: 22.6 ± 15.2; post-surgery: 17.7 ± 14.3; p = 0.110) and unloaded 15° flexion (pre-surgery: 18.9 ± 12.7; post-surgery: 12.2 ± 13.0; p = 0.052) of the knee in patients with mild dysplasia, whereas in patients with severe dysplasia of the trochlea the results happened not to be significant in the same angles with loading of 5 kg (0° flexion pre-surgery: 34.4 ± 12.1; post-surgery: 31.2 ± 16.1; p = 0.5; 15° flexion pre-surgery: 33.3 ± 6.1; post-surgery: 23.4 ± 8.6; p = 0.068). CCA increased in every flexion angle and group, but significant increase was seen only between 0°-15° (unloaded and loaded) in mild dysplasia of the trochlea, where significant increase in Dejour type C and D group was seen with unloaded full extension of the knee (0° flexion) and 30° flexion (unloaded and loaded). CONCLUSION This study proves a significant effect of the MPFL graft to cartilage contact area, as well as an improvement of the patella tilt in patients with mild dysplasia of the trochlea. Thus, the MPFL can be used as a single treatment for patient with Dejour type A and B dysplasia. However, in patients with severe dysplasia the MPFL graft alone does not significantly increase CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Frodl
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Freiburg University Hospital, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Thomas Lange
- Department of Radiology, Medical Physics, Freiburg University Hospital, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Markus Siegel
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Freiburg University Hospital, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hans Meine
- Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Medicine, 28359 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Elham Taghizadeh
- Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Medicine, 28359 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hagen Schmal
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University Hospital Odense, Sdr. Boulevard 29, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Kaywan Izadpanah
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Freiburg University Hospital, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
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12
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Said O, Schock J, Abrar DB, Schad P, Kuhl C, Nolte T, Knobe M, Prescher A, Truhn D, Nebelung S. In-Situ Cartilage Functionality Assessment Based on Advanced MRI Techniques and Precise Compartmental Knee Joint Loading through Varus and Valgus Stress. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11081476. [PMID: 34441410 PMCID: PMC8391314 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11081476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress MRI brings together mechanical loading and MRI in the functional assessment of cartilage and meniscus, yet lacks basic scientific validation. This study assessed the response-to-loading patterns of cartilage and meniscus incurred by standardized compartmental varus and valgus loading of the human knee joint. Eight human cadaveric knee joints underwent imaging by morphologic (i.e., proton density-weighted fat-saturated and 3D water-selective) and quantitative (i.e., T1ρ and T2 mapping) sequences, both unloaded and loaded to 73.5 N, 147.1 N, and 220.6 N of compartmental pressurization. After manual segmentation of cartilage and meniscus, morphometric measures and T2 and T1ρ relaxation times were quantified. CT-based analysis of joint alignment and histologic and biomechanical tissue measures served as references. Under loading, we observed significant decreases in cartilage thickness (p < 0.001 (repeated measures ANOVA)) and T1ρ relaxation times (p = 0.001; medial meniscus, lateral tibia; (Friedman test)), significant increases in T2 relaxation times (p ≤ 0.004; medial femur, lateral tibia; (Friedman test)), and adaptive joint motion. In conclusion, varus and valgus stress MRI induces meaningful changes in cartilage and meniscus secondary to compartmental loading that may be assessed by cartilage morphometric measures as well as T2 and T1ρ mapping as imaging surrogates of tissue functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Said
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (O.S.); (P.S.); (C.K.); (T.N.); (D.T.); (S.N.)
| | - Justus Schock
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Faculty, University Dusseldorf, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany;
- Correspondence:
| | - Daniel Benjamin Abrar
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Faculty, University Dusseldorf, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany;
| | - Philipp Schad
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (O.S.); (P.S.); (C.K.); (T.N.); (D.T.); (S.N.)
| | - Christiane Kuhl
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (O.S.); (P.S.); (C.K.); (T.N.); (D.T.); (S.N.)
| | - Teresa Nolte
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (O.S.); (P.S.); (C.K.); (T.N.); (D.T.); (S.N.)
| | - Matthias Knobe
- Department of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, Lucerne Cantonal Hospital, 6000, Lucerne, Switzerland;
| | - Andreas Prescher
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany;
| | - Daniel Truhn
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (O.S.); (P.S.); (C.K.); (T.N.); (D.T.); (S.N.)
| | - Sven Nebelung
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (O.S.); (P.S.); (C.K.); (T.N.); (D.T.); (S.N.)
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13
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Jerban S, Ma Y, Kasibhatla A, Wu M, Szeverenyi N, Guma M, Covey D, D'lima D, Ward SR, Sah RL, Chang EY, Du J, Chung CB. Ultrashort echo time adiabatic T 1ρ (UTE-Adiab-T 1ρ) is sensitive to human cadaveric knee joint deformation induced by mechanical loading and unloading. Magn Reson Imaging 2021; 80:98-105. [PMID: 33945858 PMCID: PMC10858706 DOI: 10.1016/j.mri.2021.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The development of ultrashort echo time (UTE) MRI sequences has led to improved imaging of tissues with short T2 relaxation times, such as the deep layer cartilage and meniscus. UTE combined with adiabatic T1ρ preparation (UTE-Adiab-T1ρ) is an MRI measure with low sensitivity to the magic angle effect. This study aimed to investigate the sensitivity of UTE-Adiab-T1ρ to mechanical load-induced deformations in the tibiofemoral cartilage and meniscus of human cadaveric knee joints. METHODS Eight knee joints from young (42 ± 12 years at death) donors were evaluated on a 3 T scanner using the UTE-Adiab-T1ρ sequence under four sequential loading conditions: load = 0 N (Load0), load = 300 N (Load1), load = 500 N (Load2), and load = 0 N (Unload). UTE-Adiab-T1ρ was measured in the meniscus (M), femoral articular cartilage (FAC), tibial articular cartilage (TAC), articular cartilage regions uncovered by meniscus (AC-UC), and articular cartilage regions covered by meniscus (AC-MC) within region of interests (ROIs) manually selected by an experienced MR scientist. The Kruskal-Wallis test, with corrected significance level for multiple comparisons, was used to examine the UTE-Adiab-T1ρ differences between different loading conditions. RESULTS UTE-Adiab-T1ρ decreased in all grouped ROIs under both Load1 and Load2 conditions (-18.7% and - 16.9% for M, -18.8% and - 12.6% for FAC, -21.4% and - 10.7% for TAC, -26.2% and - 13.9% for AC-UC, and - 16.9% and - 10.7% for AC-MC). After unloading, average UTE-Adiab-T1ρ increased across all ROIs and within a lower range compared with the average UTE-Adiab-T1ρ decreases induced by the two previous loading conditions. The loading-induced differences were statistically non-significant. CONCLUSIONS While UTE-Adiab-T1ρ reduction by loading is likely an indication of tissue deformation, the increase of UTE-Adiab-T1ρ within a lower range by unloading implies partial tissue restoration. This study highlights the UTE-Adiab-T1ρ technique as an imaging marker of tissue function for detecting deformation patterns under loading.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Jerban
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - Yajun Ma
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Akhil Kasibhatla
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Mei Wu
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Monica Guma
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Dana Covey
- Orthopaedic Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Darryl D'lima
- Shiley Center for Orthopedic Research and Education at Scripps Clinic, CA, USA
| | - Samuel R Ward
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Robert L Sah
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Eric Y Chang
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA; Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jiang Du
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Christine B Chung
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
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14
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Truhn D, Zwingenberger KT, Schock J, Abrar DB, Radke KL, Post M, Linka K, Knobe M, Kuhl C, Nebelung S. No pressure, no diamonds? - Static vs. dynamic compressive in-situ loading to evaluate human articular cartilage functionality by functional MRI. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2021; 120:104558. [PMID: 33957568 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2021.104558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Biomechanical Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of articular cartilage, i.e. its imaging under loading, is a promising diagnostic tool to assess the tissue's functionality in health and disease. This study aimed to assess the response to static and dynamic loading of histologically intact cartilage samples by functional MRI and pressure-controlled in-situ loading. To this end, 47 cartilage samples were obtained from the medial femoral condyles of total knee arthroplasties (from 24 patients), prepared to standard thickness, and placed in a standard knee joint in a pressure-controlled whole knee-joint compressive loading device. Cartilage samples' responses to static (i.e. constant), dynamic (i.e. alternating), and no loading, i.e. free-swelling conditions, were assessed before (δ0), and after 30 min (δ1) and 60 min (δ2) of loading using serial T1ρ maps acquired on a 3.0T clinical MRI scanner (Achieva, Philips). Alongside texture features, relative changes in T1ρ (Δ1, Δ2) were determined for the upper and lower sample halves and the entire sample, analyzed using appropriate statistical tests, and referenced to histological (Mankin scoring) and biomechanical reference measures (tangent stiffness). Histological, biomechanical, and T1ρ sample characteristics at δ0 were relatively homogenous in all samples. In response to loading, relative increases in T1ρ were strong and significant after dynamic loading (Δ1 = 10.3 ± 17.0%, Δ2 = 21.6 ± 21.8%, p = 0.002), while relative increases in T1ρ after static loading and in controls were moderate and not significant. Generally, texture features did not demonstrate clear loading-related associations underlying the spatial relationships of T1ρ. When realizing the clinical translation, this in-situ study suggests that serial T1ρ mapping is best combined with dynamic loading to assess cartilage functionality in humans based on advanced MRI techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Truhn
- Aachen University Hospital, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, D-52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ken Tonio Zwingenberger
- Aachen University Hospital, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, D-52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Justus Schock
- University Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, D-40225, Düsseldorf, Germany; Institute of Imaging and Computer Vision, RWTH Aachen University, D-52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Daniel Benjamin Abrar
- University Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, D-40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Karl Ludger Radke
- University Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, D-40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Manuel Post
- Aachen University Hospital, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, D-52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Kevin Linka
- Hamburg University of Technology, Department of Continuum and Materials Mechanics, D-21073, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Knobe
- Cantonal Hospital Lucerne, Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, CH-6000, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Christiane Kuhl
- Aachen University Hospital, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, D-52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Sven Nebelung
- University Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, D-40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.
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15
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Hafner T, Post M, Said O, Schad P, Schock J, Abrar DB, Knobe M, Kuhl C, Truhn D, Nebelung S. Identifying the imaging correlates of cartilage functionality based on quantitative MRI mapping - The collagenase exposure model. Acta Biomater 2020; 117:310-321. [PMID: 32980541 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Cartilage functionality is determined by tissue structure and composition. If altered, cartilage is predisposed to premature degeneration. This pathomimetical study of early osteoarthritis evaluated the dose-dependant effects of collagenase-induced collagen disintegration and proteoglycan depletion on cartilage functionality as assessed by serial T1, T1ρ, T2, and T2* mapping under loading. 30 human femoral osteochondral samples underwent imaging on a clinical 3.0 T MRI scanner (Achieva, Philips) in the unloaded reference configuration (δ0) and under pressure-controlled quasi-static indentation loading to 15.1 N (δ1) and to 28.6 N (δ2). Imaging was performed before and after exposure to low (LC, 0.5 mg/mL; n = 10) or high concentration (HC, 1.5 mg/mL; n = 10) of collagenase. Untreated samples served as controls (n = 10). Loading responses were determined for the entire sample and the directly loaded (i.e. sub-pistonal) and bilaterally adjacent (i.e. peri‑pistonal) regions, referenced histologically, quantified as relative changes, and analysed using adequate parametric and non-parametric statistical tests. Dose-dependant surface disintegration and tissue loss were reflected by distinctly different pre- and post-exposure response-to-loading patterns. While T1 generally decreased with loading, regardless of collagenase exposure, T1ρ increased significantly after HC exposure (p = 0.008). Loading-induced decreases in T2 were significant after LC exposure (p = 0.006), while changes in T2* were ambiguous. In conclusion, aberrant loading-induced changes in T2 and T1ρ reflect moderate and severe matrix changes, respectively, and indicate the close interrelatedness of matrix changes and functionality in cartilage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Hafner
- Aachen University Hospital, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology,D-52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Manuel Post
- Aachen University Hospital, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology,D-52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Oliver Said
- Aachen University Hospital, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology,D-52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Philipp Schad
- Aachen University Hospital, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology,D-52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Justus Schock
- University Dusseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, D-40225 Dusseldorf, Germany; Institute of Computer Vision and Imaging, RWTH University Aachen, D-52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Daniel Benjamin Abrar
- University Dusseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, D-40225 Dusseldorf, Germany
| | - Matthias Knobe
- Clinic for Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Cantonal Hospital Luzern, CH-6004 Luzern, Switzerland
| | - Christiane Kuhl
- Aachen University Hospital, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology,D-52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Daniel Truhn
- Aachen University Hospital, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology,D-52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Sven Nebelung
- University Dusseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, D-40225 Dusseldorf, Germany.
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Depth-dependent changes in cartilage T2 under compressive strain: a 7T MRI study on human knee cartilage. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2020; 28:1276-1285. [PMID: 32474193 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2020.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the potential of using ΔT2 as an indirect index of cartilage strain by quantifying the relationship between local in situ compressive strain and ΔT2 through the full depth of human tibial and femoral articular cartilage. DESIGN Osteochondral samples (n = 4) of human tibial and femoral cartilage were harvested from cadavers and imaged in a Bruker 7T research MRI scanner under increasing displacement-controlled compressive strains. T2 was calculated for 3D double echo steady state (DESS) image volumes at each strain level. A decaying exponential model estimated local, depth-dependent strains. Strained image volumes were non-linearly warped back to their unloaded configurations and ΔT2 was calculated by image subtraction. Linear modeling assessed local relationships between strain and ΔT2. RESULTS Bulk average tibial T2 was 13.2 ms for unstrained cartilage and ranged from 13.0 to 13.1 ms under strain; femoral T2 was 14.0 ms for unstrained cartilage and ranged from 13.5 to 14.8 ms under strain. Local ΔT2 in strained cartilage varied with depth. Linear modeling revealed significant correlations between in situ strain and ΔT2 for both tibial and femoral cartilage; correlation coefficients were higher for tibial cartilage. CONCLUSIONS Changes in bulk average T2 are unsuitable as a quantitative surrogate measure of cartilage strain because bulk averaging masks important local variations. High-resolution measures of local ΔT2 have potential value as a surrogate for strain; however, their value is limited until we fully understand the influence of factors like age, joint surface and degeneration on the strain vs T2 relationship.
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17
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Said O, Schock J, Krämer N, Thüring J, Hitpass L, Schad P, Kuhl C, Abrar D, Truhn D, Nebelung S. An MRI-compatible varus-valgus loading device for whole-knee joint functionality assessment based on compartmental compression: a proof-of-concept study. MAGNETIC RESONANCE MATERIALS IN PHYSICS BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2020; 33:839-854. [PMID: 32314105 PMCID: PMC8302563 DOI: 10.1007/s10334-020-00844-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Beyond static assessment, functional techniques are increasingly applied in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies. Stress MRI techniques bring together MRI and mechanical loading to study knee joint and tissue functionality, yet prototypical axial compressive loading devices are bulky and complex to operate. This study aimed to design and validate an MRI-compatible pressure-controlled varus-valgus loading device that applies loading along the joint line. METHODS Following the device's thorough validation, we demonstrated proof of concept by subjecting a structurally intact human cadaveric knee joint to serial imaging in unloaded and loaded configurations, i.e. to varus and valgus loading at 7.5 kPa (= 73.5 N), 15 kPa (= 147.1 N), and 22.5 kPa (= 220.6 N). Following clinical standard (PDw fs) and high-resolution 3D water-selective cartilage (WATSc) sequences, we performed manual segmentations and computations of morphometric cartilage measures. We used CT and radiography (to quantify joint space widths) and histology and biomechanics (to assess tissue quality) as references. RESULTS We found (sub)regional decreases in cartilage volume, thickness, and mean joint space widths reflective of areal pressurization of the medial and lateral femorotibial compartments. DISCUSSION Once substantiated by larger sample sizes, varus-valgus loading may provide a powerful alternative stress MRI technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Said
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Justus Schock
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Düsseldorf, University Dusseldorf, Moorenstraße 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute of Computer Vision and Imaging, RWTH University Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Nils Krämer
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Johannes Thüring
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Lea Hitpass
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Philipp Schad
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Christiane Kuhl
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Daniel Abrar
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Düsseldorf, University Dusseldorf, Moorenstraße 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Daniel Truhn
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Computer Vision and Imaging, RWTH University Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Sven Nebelung
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Düsseldorf, University Dusseldorf, Moorenstraße 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.
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Functional MRI Mapping of Human Meniscus Functionality and its Relation to Degeneration. Sci Rep 2020; 10:2499. [PMID: 32051526 PMCID: PMC7016001 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-59573-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Meniscus pathology may promote early osteoarthritis. This study assessed human meniscus functionality (i.e. its response to loading) ex vivo based on quantitative T1, T1ρ, and T2 mapping as a function of histological degeneration and loading. Forty-five meniscus samples of variable degeneration were harvested from the lateral meniscus body region of 45 patients during total knee arthroplasties. Samples underwent serial mapping on a 3.0-T MRI scanner (Achieva, Philips) using a force-controlled and torque-inducing compressive loading device. Samples were measured at three loading positions, i.e. unloaded, loaded to 2 bar (compression force 37 N) and 4 bar (69 N). Histology (Pauli classification) and biomechanics (Elastic Modulus) served as references. Based on histology, samples were trichotomized as grossly intact (n = 14), mildly degenerative (n = 16), and moderate-to-severely degenerative (n = 15) and analyzed using appropriate parametric and non-parametric tests. For T1, we found loading-induced decreases in all samples, irrespective of degeneration. For T1ρ, zonal increases in intact (apex) and decreases in degenerative samples (base) were found, while for T2, changes were ambiguous. In conclusion, force-controlled loading and serial MR imaging reveal response-to-loading patterns in meniscus. Zonal T1ρ response-to-loading patterns are most promising in differentiating degeneration, while T1 and T2 aren’t clearly related to degeneration.and may provide an imaging-based indication of functional tissue properties.
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Yang J, Shao H, Ma Y, Wan L, Zhang Y, Jiang J, Du J, Tang G. Quantitative ultrashort echo time magnetization transfer (UTE-MT) for diagnosis of early cartilage degeneration: comparison with UTE-T2* and T2 mapping. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2020; 10:171-183. [PMID: 31956540 DOI: 10.21037/qims.2019.12.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background To investigate the feasibility of using quantitative ultrashort echo time magnetization transfer (UTE-MT) technique in diagnosing early cartilage degeneration and to compare the technique's diagnostic efficacy with UTE-T2* mapping and T2 mapping. Methods Twenty human anterolateral condyle specimens with degeneration were obtained from volunteers undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA); they then underwent magnetic resonance (MR) scan on a clinical 3.0T scanner (GE, MR750). Seventy-two regions of interest (ROI) were manually drawn on specimens for UTE-MT, UTE-T2*, and T2 measurement, and the corresponding cartilage-bone regions were further divided into degeneration classifications of normal (n=11, Mankin scores 0-1), mild (n=28, Mankin scores 2-5), moderate (n=21, Mankin scores 6-9), and severe (n=12, Mankin scores 10-14) based on histological measures of degeneration (i.e., Mankin scores) as a reference standard. Differences among groups and correlations between quantitative MR parameters and Mankin scores were assessed using analysis of variance (ANOVA), Tamhane-T2, LSD, Kruskal-Wallis tests, and Spearman's correlation coefficient. The receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to compare the diagnostic efficacy of different quantitative MR parameters for the detection of mild cartilage degeneration. Results The UTE magnetization transfer ratio (UTE-MTR) in the normal group was significantly different from the mild group (P=0.021), moderate group (P<0.001), and severe group (P<0.001). Significant differences were observed in the T2* values between both the normal group and the moderate group (P<0.032), and between the normal group and the severe group (P<0.001). For T2 values, the only significant difference was observed between the severe group and the normal group (P=0.011). The UTE-MTR, UTE-T2*, and T2 values were all significantly correlated with Mankin scores: UTE-MTR values were strongly (r=-0.678, P<0.001) correlated, UTE-T2* values were markedly correlated (r=-0.501, P<0.001), and T2 values were weakly correlated (r=0.337, P=0.004) correlated with Mankin scores. The diagnostic efficacy of UTE-MTR (AUC =0.828, P=0.002) was better than UTE T2* mapping and T2 mapping (AUC =0.604, P=0.318; AUC =0.644, P=0.165, respectively) for the diagnosis of early cartilage degeneration. Conclusions UTE-MTR values were strongly correlated with histological grades of cartilage degeneration, and its diagnostic efficacy was better than both UTE T2* mapping and T2 mapping in detecting early cartilage degeneration. Once the clinical potential of the technique has been confirmed, UTE-MT may provide a promising imaging biomarker with potential application in a more comprehensive diagnosis and monitoring of cartilage degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Yang
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Hongda Shao
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Yajun Ma
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Lidi Wan
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Yixuan Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Junjie Jiang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Jiang Du
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Guangyu Tang
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
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20
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Differentiation of human cartilage degeneration by functional MRI mapping—an ex vivo study. Eur Radiol 2019; 29:6671-6681. [DOI: 10.1007/s00330-019-06283-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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21
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Nebelung S, Post M, Knobe M, Tingart M, Emans P, Thüring J, Kuhl C, Truhn D. Detection of Early-Stage Degeneration in Human Articular Cartilage by Multiparametric MR Imaging Mapping of Tissue Functionality. Sci Rep 2019; 9:5895. [PMID: 30976065 PMCID: PMC6459828 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-42543-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
To assess human articular cartilage tissue functionality by serial multiparametric quantitative MRI (qMRI) mapping as a function of histological degeneration. Forty-nine cartilage samples obtained during total knee replacement surgeries were placed in a standardized artificial knee joint within an MRI-compatible compressive loading device and imaged in situ and at three loading positions, i.e. unloaded, at 2.5 mm displacement (20% body weight [BW]) and at 5 mm displacement (110% BW). Using a clinical 3.0 T MRI system (Achieva, Philips), serial T1, T1ρ, T2 and T2* maps were generated for each sample and loading position. Histology (Mankin scoring) and biomechanics (Young’s modulus) served as references. Samples were dichotomized as intact (int, n = 27) or early degenerative (deg, n = 22) based on histology and analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA and unpaired Student’s t-tests after log-transformation. For T1ρ, T2 and T2*, significant loading-induced differences were found in deg (in contrast to int) samples, while for T1 significant decreases in all zones were observed, irrespective of degeneration. In conclusion, cartilage functionality may be visualized using serial qMRI parameter mapping and the response-to-loading patterns are associated with histological degeneration. Hence, loading-induced changes in qMRI parameter maps provide promising surrogate parameters of tissue functionality and status in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven Nebelung
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Manuel Post
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Matthias Knobe
- Department of Trauma Surgery, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Markus Tingart
- Department of Orthopaedics, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Pieter Emans
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes Thüring
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Christiane Kuhl
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Daniel Truhn
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany.,Institute of Imaging and Computer Vision, RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
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22
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Lange T, Taghizadeh E, Knowles BR, Südkamp NP, Zaitsev M, Meine H, Izadpanah K. Quantification of patellofemoral cartilage deformation and contact area changes in response to static loading via high-resolution MRI with prospective motion correction. J Magn Reson Imaging 2019; 50:1561-1570. [PMID: 30903682 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.26724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Higher-resolution MRI of the patellofemoral cartilage under loading is hampered by subject motion since knee flexion is required during the scan. PURPOSE To demonstrate robust quantification of cartilage compression and contact area changes in response to in situ loading by means of MRI with prospective motion correction and regularized image postprocessing. STUDY TYPE Cohort study. SUBJECTS Fifteen healthy male subjects. FIELD STRENGTH 3 T. SEQUENCE Spoiled 3D gradient-echo sequence augmented with prospective motion correction based on optical tracking. Measurements were performed with three different loads (0/200/400 N). ASSESSMENT Bone and cartilage segmentation was performed manually and regularized with a deep-learning approach. Average patellar and femoral cartilage thickness and contact area were calculated for the three loading situations. Reproducibility was assessed via repeated measurements in one subject. STATISTICAL TESTS Comparison of the three loading situations was performed by Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. RESULTS Regularization using a deep convolutional neural network reduced the variance of the quantified relative load-induced changes of cartilage thickness and contact area compared to purely manual segmentation (average reduction of standard deviation by ∼50%) and repeated measurements performed on the same subject demonstrated high reproducibility of the method. For the three loading situations (0/200/400 N), the patellofemoral cartilage contact area as well as the mean patellar and femoral cartilage thickness were significantly different from each other (P < 0.05). While the patellofemoral cartilage contact area increased under loading (by 14.5/19.0% for loads of 200/400 N), patellar and femoral cartilage thickness exhibited a load-dependent thickness decrease (patella: -4.4/-7.4%, femur: -3.4/-7.1% for loads of 200/400 N). DATA CONCLUSION MRI with prospective motion correction enables quantitative evaluation of patellofemoral cartilage deformation and contact area changes in response to in situ loading. Regularizing the manual segmentations using a neural network enables robust quantification of the load-induced changes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 2 Technical Efficacy: Stage 2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1561-1570.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Lange
- Department of Radiology, Medical Physics, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Elham Taghizadeh
- Medical Image Computing Group, Department of Informatics, University of Bremen, Germany.,Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Medicine MEVIS, Bremen, Germany
| | - Benjamin R Knowles
- Department of Radiology, Medical Physics, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Medical Physics in Radiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Norbert P Südkamp
- Department of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, Medical Center - Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Maxim Zaitsev
- Department of Radiology, Medical Physics, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hans Meine
- Medical Image Computing Group, Department of Informatics, University of Bremen, Germany.,Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Medicine MEVIS, Bremen, Germany
| | - Kaywan Izadpanah
- Department of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, Medical Center - Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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Multiparametric MRI and Computational Modelling in the Assessment of Human Articular Cartilage Properties: A Comprehensive Approach. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:9460456. [PMID: 29862300 PMCID: PMC5976938 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9460456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2017] [Accepted: 04/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (qMRI) is a promising approach to detect early cartilage degeneration. However, there is no consensus on which cartilage component contributes to the tissue's qMRI signal properties. T1, T1ρ, and T2⁎ maps of cartilage samples (n = 8) were generated on a clinical 3.0-T MRI system. All samples underwent histological assessment to ensure structural integrity. For cross-referencing, a discretized numerical model capturing distinct compositional and structural tissue properties, that is, fluid fraction (FF), proteoglycan (PG) and collagen (CO) content and collagen fiber orientation (CFO), was implemented. In a pixel-wise and region-specific manner (central versus peripheral region), qMRI parameter values and modelled tissue parameters were correlated and quantified in terms of Spearman's correlation coefficient ρs. Significant correlations were found between modelled compositional parameters and T1 and T2⁎, in particular in the central region (T1: ρs ≥ 0.7 [FF, CFO], ρs ≤ −0.8 [CO, PG]; T2⁎: ρs ≥ 0.67 [FF, CFO], ρs ≤ −0.71 [CO, PG]). For T1ρ, correlations were considerably weaker and fewer (0.16 ≤ ρs ≤ −0.15). QMRI parameters are characterized in their biophysical properties and their sensitivity and specificity profiles in a basic scientific context. Although none of these is specific towards any particular cartilage constituent, T1 and T2⁎ reflect actual tissue compositional features more closely than T1ρ.
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Nebelung S, Sondern B, Jahr H, Tingart M, Knobe M, Thüring J, Kuhl C, Truhn D. Non-invasive T1ρ mapping of the human cartilage response to loading and unloading. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2018; 26:236-244. [PMID: 29175373 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2017.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Revised: 09/21/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To define the physiological response to sequential loading and unloading in histologically intact human articular cartilage using serial T1ρ mapping, as T1ρ is considered to indicate the tissue's macromolecular content. METHOD 18 macroscopically intact cartilage-bone samples were obtained from the central lateral femoral condyles of 18 patients undergoing total knee replacement. Serial T1ρ mapping was performed on a clinical 3.0-T MRI system using a modified prostate coil. Spin-lock multiple gradient-echo sequences prior to, during and after standardized indentation loading (displacement controlled, strain 20%) were used to obtain seven serial T1ρ maps: unloaded (δ0), quasi-statically loaded (indentation1-indentation3) and under subsequent relaxation (relaxation1-relaxation3). After manual segmentation, zonal and regional regions-of-interest were defined. ROI-specific relative changes were calculated and statistically assessed using paired t-tests. Histological (Mankin classification) and biomechanical (unconfined compression) evaluations served as references. RESULTS All samples were histologically and biomechanically grossly intact (Mankin sum: 1.8 ± 1.2; Young's Modulus: 0.7 ± 0.4 MPa). Upon loading, T1ρ consistently increased throughout the entire sample thickness, primarily subpistonally (indentation1 [M ± SD]: 9.5 ± 7.8% [sub-pistonal area, SPA] vs 4.2 ± 5.8% [peri-pistonal area, PPA]; P < 0.001). T1ρ further increased with ongoing loading (indentation3: 14.1 ± 8.1 [SPA] vs 7.7 ± 5.9% [PPA]; P < 0.001). Even upon unloading (i.e., relaxation), T1ρ persistently increased in time. CONCLUSION Serial T1ρ-mapping reveals distinct and complex zonal and regional changes in articular cartilage as a function of loading and unloading. Thereby, longitudinal adaptive processes in hyaline cartilage become evident, which may be used for the tissue's non-invasive functional characterization by T1ρ.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Nebelung
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany.
| | - B Sondern
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany.
| | - H Jahr
- Department of Orthopaedics, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany.
| | - M Tingart
- Department of Orthopaedics, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany.
| | - M Knobe
- Department of Orthopaedic Trauma, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany.
| | - J Thüring
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany.
| | - C Kuhl
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany.
| | - D Truhn
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany.
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