New techniques in articular cartilage imaging.
Standardized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) pulse sequences provide an accurate, reproducible assessment of cartilage morphology. Three-dimensional (3D) modeling techniques enable semiautomated models of the joint surface and thickness measurements, which may eventually prove essential in templating before partial or total joint resurfacing as well as focal cartilage repair. Quantitative MRI techniques, such as T2 mapping, T1 rho, and delayed gadolinium-enhanced MRI of cartilage (dGEMRIC), provide noninvasive information about cartilage and repair tissue biochemistry. Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) demonstrate information regarding the regional anisotropic variation of cartilage ultrastructure. Further research strengthening the association between quantitative MRI and cartilage material properties may predict the functional capacity of native and repaired tissue. MRI provides an essential objective assessment of cartilage regenerative procedures.
Potter
Hollis G
HG
Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, 535 East 70th Street, New York, NY 10021, USA. potterh@hss.edu
Black
Brandon R
BR
Chong
Le Roy
le R
D002358:Cartilage, Articular / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery / Q000648:ultrastructure; D003094:Collagen; D006801:Humans; D007592:Joint Diseases / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D011509:Proteoglycans
D011509:Proteoglycans; D003094:Collagen