Application of three-dimensional computed tomography for the rheumatoid wrist.
Recent technical advances in computed tomography (CT) and the introduction of three-dimensional (3D) image reconstruction through computer systems make distinct visualization of tiny defects in the hand and wrist a feasible task. Three wrists from three patients -- two of whom are patients with rheumatoid arthritis and one with osteoarthritis -- were evaluated by 3D CT. Images were obtained with a multidetector-row CT scanner. Bony wrist structures including erosions were observed in the patients with arthritis by means of 3D CT. 3D CT could clearly visualize bone-erosive lesions. It also revealed various interesting stereoscopic views of bony structures unattainable with conventional radiographic studies. 3D CT may serve to be interesting in future imaging studies in the rheumatology field.
Ju
Ji Hyeon
JH
Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kangnam St Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea.
Kang
Kwi Young
KY
Kim
In Je
IJ
Yoon
Jang Uk
JU
Kim
Ho-Youn
HY
Park
Sung-Hwan
SH
D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006801:Humans; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014955:Wrist Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*