Reproducibility of trabecular structure analysis using flat-panel volume computed tomography.
OBJECTIVE
To determine inter-scan, inter-reader and intra-reader variability of trabecular structure analysis using flat-panel volume computed tomography (fp-VCT) in cadaver knee specimens.


METHODS
Five explanted knee specimens were imaged at three different time points using fp-VCT. Four parameters that quantify trabecular bone structure of the proximal tibia were measured by two observers at two different time points. Bland-Altman analysis was used to compute the inter-scan, inter-observer and intra-observer variability.


RESULTS
Inter-scan variability was low, with a mean difference of 0% and a standard deviation less than 8.4% for each of the four parameters. The inter-observer and intra-observer variability was less than 2.8% +/- 8.5%.


CONCLUSIONS
Fp-VCT is a method for assessing trabecular structure parameters with low inter-scan, inter-reader and intra-reader variability.
Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
Arnold C
AC
Cheung
Miriam A
MA
Bredella
Ma'moun
M
Al Khalaf
Michael
M
Grasruck
Christianne
C
Leidecker
Rajiv
R
Gupta
D006801:Humans; D007089:Image Enhancement / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D007090:Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D015588:Observer Variation; D011873:Radiology Information Systems; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D013977:Tibia / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*