In:
Magnetic Resonance Materials in Physics, Biology and Medicine, Springer Science and Business Media LLC, Vol. 33, No. 6 ( 2020-12), p. 839-854
Abstract:
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.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0968-5243
,
1352-8661
DOI:
10.1007/s10334-020-00844-6
Language:
English
Publisher:
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Publication Date:
2020
detail.hit.zdb_id:
1502491-X
detail.hit.zdb_id:
1283133-5
SSG:
11
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