3D reconstructions, 4D imaging and postprocessing with CT in musculoskeletal disorders: Past, present and future

Evaluation of Reliability of Dynamic Scapholunate Distance Measured on 4D CT-Acquired Images

Purpose  A technique to measure scapholunate distance based on four-dimensional computed tomography (4D CT)-acquired images is presented. Materials and Methods  Intra-observer variability was evaluated through a repeated-measures study. A 4D CT of seven patients suspected of scapholunate lesion was performed. Anatomical landmarks were identified on a three-dimensional reconstructed model of the wrist. All 4D CT datasets were evaluated thrice by two observers. Standard deviation of the differences between two measurements, interclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC) were calculated. Results  Intra-observer variability for the expert observer (ICC > 0.95) was lower than that of the novice observer (ICC > 0.77) and interobserver variability was low (ICC > 0.85). For the expert observer, measurement error (SEM < 0.13 mm and MDC < 0.36 mm) was smaller than that of the novice observer (SEM < 0.45 mm and MDC < 1.24 mm). Both SEM and MDC values were low, compared to the scan resolution and the absolute value of intervals. Conclusion  The proposed assessment results in a reproducible and reliable measurement of scapholunate distance.

Correlation between tibial tubercle-trochlear groove and 3D shiftactive extension in patellar dislocation: An active extension analysis based on three-dimensional measurements

PURPOSE

To investigate the correlation between 3D shiftactive extension (lateral patellar shift in active extension position based on newly established 3D measurement method) and static tibial tubercle-trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance in full knee extension with muscle relaxation.

METHODS

42 knees of 24 patients with recurrent patellar dislocation were included in the study group and 38 knees of 30 subjects were included in the control group. TT-TG distance, bisect offset indexmuscle relaxation, bisect offset indexactive extension and 3D shiftactive extension were measured to investigate the correlation between patellar lateral shift measurements and TT-TG distance.

RESULTS

In the recurrent patellar dislocation group, the correlation between TT-TG distance and 3D shiftactive extension (r = 0.76 [95 % CI, 0.61 to 0.86]) was significantly higher than correlation between TT-TG distance and bisect offset indexactive extension (r = 0.61 [95 % CI, 0.32 to 0.79]) and correlation between TT-TG distance and bisect offset indexmuscle relaxation (r = 0.6 [95 % CI, 0.32 to 0.80]), with p = 0.01 and p = 0.03, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Significantly stronger correlation between TT-TG distance and 3D shiftactive extension in patients with patellar dislocation was observed in this study. 3D shiftactive extension could be considered as a preoperative evaluation for tibial tubercle osteotomy to both characterize the patellar lateral shift and estimate tibial tubercle lateralization to simplify the preoperative assessment procedures. The 3D shiftactive extension obtained under muscle contraction conditions both simulated the functional state of the patellofemoral joint and improved the limitations of the 2D measurements, helping to improve surgical decision-making for functional rehabilitation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Abnormal patellar sagittal spatial kinematics in patients with patellofemoral pain: an in vivo dynamic CT study

BACKGROUND

Patellofemoral joint kinematics is a complex three-dimensional(3D) motion, involving shift and rotation in the coronal, sagittal, and axial directions. Quantifying patellar tracking only at the axial level of the patella or with two-dimensional(2D) parameters may not be comprehensive. The current study sought to explore the spatial kinematics characteristics of the patella in three directions, especially the sagittal plane in patients with patellofemoral pain (PFP) based on Four-dimensional computed tomography (4D-CT).

METHODS

A total of 35 knees with PFP and 35 controls from March 2023 to May 2024 were evaluated. 3D shift and tilt of the patella were measured in the patellofemoral joint coordinate system established by MIMICS. The 3D shift and tilt of the patella in three directions (coronal, sagittal, and axial) were evaluated. Differences between groups were analyzed using two-way repeated measures ANOVA.

RESULTS

The 3D tiltsagittal and 3D tiltaxial trends differed between the two groups (P = 0.020, 0.018, respectively). The 3D shiftsagittal at knee flexions of 50° to 70° was significantly increased in the PFP group compared to the control group (P = 0.009, 0.015, respectively). The 3D tiltsagittal was significantly greater in the PFP group than in the control group at -10° to 10° and 50° to 70° of knee flexion (P = 0.004, 0.005, 0.046, 0.007, respectively). The 3D tiltaxial was significantly greater in the PFP group than in the control group at -10° to 0° and 40° to 70° of knee flexion (P = 0.033, 0.011, 0.004, 0.015, respectively). The 3D shiftcoronal at knee flexions of -10° to 20° were significantly decreased in the PFP group compared to the control group (P = 0.002, < 0.001, 0.018, respectively).

CONCLUSION

It is necessary to evaluate the spatial position characteristics of the patellofemoral joint and the stability of the patella from multiple planes and angles at the dynamic level. Analyzing the spatial multi-plane kinematic characteristics of the patellofemoral joint may help in determining the etiology of PFP.

Sex differences in photon-counting detector computed tomography-derived scaphotrapeziotrapezoid joint morphometrics

OBJECTIVE

The scaphotrapeziotrapezoid (STT) joint transmits load between the wrist and thumb. Despite its clinical importance, it has received less diagnostic attention than adjacent wrist and thumb joints. CT-derived three-dimensional models offer the ability to improve measurement of articular space by evaluating subchondral articular surfaces, which can be quantified using articular morphometrics. The objectives of this study were to investigate whether articular surface areas, interosseous proximities, and carpal bone positions differ between sexes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty participants (50% female, median age 27.0 years) were prospectively recruited to a cohort study of normative wrist imaging and biomechanics. Carpal bones were meshed from CT-based segmentations using a marching cubes algorithm. Rigid body kinematic parameters of individual bones were calculated. Carpal bone postures were defined using projection angles between bone centroids. Articular surface areas and interosseous proximity distributions between adjacent bones were calculated. Morphometrics were compared between sexes using Wilcoxon rank sum or two-tailed Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests as appropriate.

RESULTS

Median articular surface area was significantly smaller in females than in males at the trapeziotrapezoid but not scaphotrapezium or scaphotrapezoid joints. Interosseous proximity distributions were closer in females at all joints (scaphotrapezium, 1.19 versus 1.42 mm; scaphotrapezoid, 1.15 versus 1.43 mm; trapeziotrapezoid, 0.45 versus 0.65 mm). Distal bones were more dorsally translated in females.

CONCLUSION

This study quantifies sex-stratified morphological variations at the STT joint. Interosseous proximity distributions may guide interpretation of imaging-derived STT joint space and can serve as reference ranges for studies of STT arthrokinematics.

Morphology of the scaphotrapeziotrapezoid joint: A multi-domain statistical shape modeling approach

The scaphotrapeziotrapezoid (STT) joint is involved in load transmission between the wrist and thumb. A quantitative description of baseline STT joint morphometrics is needed to capture the variation of normal anatomy as well as to guide staging of osteoarthritis. Statistical shape modeling (SSM) techniques quantify variations in three-dimensional shapes and relative positions. The objectives of this study are to describe the morphology of the STT joint using a multi-domain SSM. We asked: (1) What are the dominant modes of variation that impact bone and articulation morphology at the STT joint, and (2) what are the morphometrics of SSM-generated STT joints? Thirty adult participants were recruited to a computed tomography study of normal wrist imaging and biomechanics. Segmentations of the carpus were converted to three-dimensional triangular surface meshes. A multi-domain, particle-based entropy system SSM was used to quantify variation in carpal bone shape and position as well as articulation morphology. Articular surface areas and interosseous proximity distributions were calculated between mesh vertex pairs on adjacent bones within distance (2.0 mm) and surface-normal angular (35°) thresholds. In the SSM, the first five modes of variation captured 76.2% of shape variation and contributed to factors such as bone scale, articular geometries, and carpal tilt. Median interosseous proximities-a proxy for joint space-were 1.39 mm (scaphotrapezium), 1.42 mm (scaphotrapezoid), and 0.61 mm (trapeziotrapezoid). This study quantifies morphological and articular variations at the STT joint, presenting a range of normative anatomy. The range of estimated interosseous proximities may guide interpretation of imaging-derived STT joint space.

Glenoid morphology variation between patients with hypermobile shoulder joints and controls: Identification of hyperlaxity-related morphologic bone changes

Objective

Our study aims to quantitatively determine the concavity of the glenoid articular surface in patients with hypermobile shoulders compared to those without.

Method

We examined medical records of shoulder CTs from 2017 to 2022, selecting 50 patients with clinical signs of joint hypermobility for our case group and 54 for our control group. Two blinded readers independently assessed the glenoid morphology, calculating the glenoid concavity angle (GCA) and evaluating the articular surface shape as concave, flat, or convex. They also recorded the presence and severity of glenoid dysplasia. We compared these assessments between groups.

Results

The mean GCA was significantly lower in the hypermobile group (2.3 ± 3.7° and 2.3 ± 3.8°) versus controls (6.6 ± 3.3° and 5.3 ± 3.8°) (P < 0.05). Interobserver reproducibility was high (ICC=0.76). A stark difference in glenoid morphology was noted between groups (P < 0.001), with a majority of hypermobile patients having a flat or convex glenoid. GCAs decreased with increasing shoulder laxity and dysplasia. GCA showed 77-81 % sensitivity and 55-82 % specificity for detecting shoulder hyperlaxity with a 4° cutoff.

Conclusion

There is a significant association between GCA and shoulder hyperlaxity, demonstrating diagnostic efficacy and substantial interobserver agreement.

Clinical Relevance

GCA values lower than 4° warrant further clinical investigation for shoulder hyperlaxity and associated conditions, which is crucial for patient treatment planning.

Differences in Patellofemoral Alignment Between Static and Dynamic Extension Positions in Patients With Patellofemoral Pain

Background

Considering that patellofemoral pain (PFP) is related to dynamic factors, dynamic extension on 4-dimensional computed tomography (4-DCT) may better reflect the influence of muscles and surrounding soft tissue than static extension.

Purpose

To compare the characteristics of patellofemoral alignment between the static and dynamic knee extension position in patients with PFP and controls via 4-DCT.

Study Design

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

Included were 39 knees (25 patients) with PFP and 37 control knees (24 participants). For each knee, an image of the dynamic extension position (a single frame of the knee in full extension [flexion angle of -5° to 0°] selected from 21 frames of continuous images acquired by 4-DCT during active flexion and extension) and an image of the static extension position (acquired using the same equipment with the knee fully extended and the muscles relaxed) were selected. Patellofemoral alignment was evaluated between the dynamic and static extension positions and between the PFP and control groups with the following parameters: patella-patellar tendon angle (P-PTA), Blackburne-Peel ratio, bisect-offset (BO) index, lateral patellar tilt (LPT), and tibial tuberosity-trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance.

Results

In both PFP patients and controls, the P-PTA, Blackburne-Peel ratio, and BO index in the static extension position were significantly lower (P < .001 for all), while the LPT and TT-TG distance in the static extension position were significantly higher (P ≤ .034 and P < .001, respectively) compared with values in the dynamic extension position. In the comparison between groups, only P-PTA in the static extension position was significantly different (134.97° ± 4.51° [PFP] vs 137.82° ± 5.63° [control]; P = .027). No difference was found in the rate of change from the static to the dynamic extension position of any parameter between the study groups.

Conclusion

The study results revealed significant differences in patellofemoral alignment characteristics between the static and dynamic extension positions of PFP patients and controls. Multiplanar measurements may have a role in subsequent patellofemoral alignment evaluation.

Technical note: Interest of focused fields in post-mortem computed tomography using photorealistic images for age at death estimation from the pubic symphysis

INTRODUCTION

The morphological assessment of the pubic symphysis using the Suchey-Brooks method is considered a reliable age at death indicator. Age at death estimation methods can be adapted to the images obtained from post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT). The aim of this study is to evaluate the utility of pubic symphysis photorealistic images obtained through Global illumination rendering (GIR) for age at death estimation from whole-body PMCT and from focused PMCT on the pubic bone.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed virtual age at death estimation using the Suchey Brooks method from both the whole-body field of view (Large Field of View: LFOV) and the pubis-focused field of view (Small and Field of View: SFOV) of 100 PMCT. The 3D photorealistic images were evaluated by three forensic anthropologists and the results were statistically evaluated for accuracy of the two applied PMCT methods and the intra- and inter-observer errors.

RESULTS

When comparing the two acquisitions of PMCT, the accuracy rate reaches 98.5% when using a pubic-focused window (SFOV) compared to 86% with a whole-body window (LFOV). Additionally, the intra- and inter-observer variability has demonstrated that the focused window provides better repeatability and reproducibility.

CONCLUSION

Adding a pubic-focused field of view to standard PMCT and processing it with GIR appears to be an applicable technique that increases the accuracy rate for age at death estimation from the pubic symphysis.

Feasibility of photon-counting CT for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome evaluation: lower radiation dose and improved diagnostic confidence

OBJECTIVE

The feasibility of low-dose photon-counting detector (PCD) CT to measure alpha and acetabular version angles of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

FAI patients undergoing an energy-integrating detector (EID) CT underwent an IRB-approved prospective ultra-high-resolution (UHR) PCD-CT between 5/2021 and 12/2021. PCD-CT was dose-matched to the EID-CT or acquired at 50% dose. Simulated 50% dose EID-CT images were generated. Two radiologists evaluated randomized EID-CT and PCD-CT images and measured alpha and acetabular version angles on axial image slices. Image quality (noise, artifacts, and visualization of cortex) and confidence in non-FAI pathology were rated on a 4-point scale (3 = adequate). Preference tests of standard dose PCD-CT, 50% dose PCD-CT, and 50% dose EID-CT relative to standard dose EID-CT were performed using Wilcoxon Rank test.

RESULTS

20 patients underwent standard dose EID-CT (~ CTDIvol, 4.5 mGy); 10 patients, standard dose PCD-CT (4.0 mGy); 10 patients, 50% PCD-CT (2.6 mGy). Standard dose EID-CT images were scored as adequate for diagnostic task in all categories (range 2.8-3.0). Standard dose PCD-CT images scored higher than the reference in all categories (range 3.5-4, p < 0.0033). Half-dose PCD-CT images also scored higher for noise and cortex visualization (p < 0.0033) and equivalent for artifacts and visualization of non-FAI pathology. Finally, simulated 50% EID-CT images scored lower in all categories (range 1.8-2.4, p < 0.0033).

CONCLUSIONS

Dose-matched PCD-CT is superior to EID-CT for alpha angle and acetabular version measurement in the work up of FAI. UHR-PCD-CT enables 50% radiation dose reduction compared to EID while remaining adequate for the imaging task.

Computed Tomography Bone Imaging: Pushing the Boundaries in Clinical Practice

Bone microarchitecture has several clinical implications over and above estimating bone strength. Computed tomography (CT) analysis mainly uses high-resolution peripheral quantitative CT and micro-CT, research imaging techniques, most often limited to peripheral skeleton assessment. Ultra-high-resolution (UHR) CT and photon-counting detector CT, two commercially available techniques, provide images that can approach the spatial resolution of the trabeculae, bringing bone microarchitecture analysis into clinical practice and improving depiction of bone vascularization, tumor matrix, and cortical and periosteal bone. This review presents bone microarchitecture anatomy, principles of analysis, reference measurements, and an update on the performance and potential clinical applications of these new CT techniques. We also share our clinical experience and technical considerations using an UHR-CT device.

Emerging role of bone scintigraphy single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography in foot pain management

Foot and ankle joints being weight-bearing joints are commonly subjected to wear and tear and are prone to traumatic and other pathologies. Most of these foot and ankle pathologies present with pain. The diagnosis of pathology and localization of pain generators is difficult owing to the complex anatomy of the foot and similar clinical presentation. This makes the management of foot pain clinically challenging. Conventional anatomical imaging modalities are commonly employed for evaluation of any anatomical defect; however, these modalities often fail to describe the functional significance of the anatomical lesions, especially in presence of multiple lesions which is common in ankle and foot; however, hybrid single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) by virtue of its dual modalities, that is, highly sensitive functional imaging and highly specific anatomical imaging can serve as a problem-solving tool in patient management. This review attempts to describe the role of hybrid SPECT/CT in overcoming the limitation of conventional imaging and describes its potential application in the management of foot and ankle pain.

Application of Preoperative Multimodal Image Fusion Technique in Microvascular Decompression Surgery via Suboccipital Retrosigmoid Approach

OBJECTIVE

To explore the application value of preoperative multimodal image fusion technique in microvascular decompression (MVD) surgery via the suboccipital retrosigmoid approach.

METHODS

Comprehensive data of 13 patients with primary trigeminal neuralgia (TN) and 13 patients with hemifacial spasm (HFS) treated by MVD surgery via the suboccipital retrosigmoid approach at the Department of Neurosurgery in Zhuhai People's Hospital from January 2021 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Preoperatively, all patients underwent cranial thin-section computed tomography and magnetic resonance examinations. Three-dimensional (3D) digital images of the skull, brainstem, nerves, and blood vessels were constructed by the 3D-slicer software or RadiAnt DICOM Viewer, which were then applied to design the surgical approach and surgical plan. The multimodal image fusion results, clinical characteristics, intraoperative data, surgical outcomes, and complications of all patients were summarized.

RESULTS

The 3D digital images after fusion reconstruction can vividly show the anatomical relationship between the skull, brainstem, nerves, and blood vessels and was helpful to tailor the surgical strategy. All 26 patients underwent a smooth surgery. During the surgery, the key points were accurately located, the corners of the transverse sinus and sigmoid sinus were completely exposed, and no venous sinus injury occurred in all 26 patients. The key point was approximately located at the top point of the digastric groove, 12.3 ± 0.46 mm vertically above and 6.3 ± 0.6 mm laterally to the Frankfurt horizontal plane. The average cranial opening time was 30.4 (±3.6) min, and the mean operating time was 104.7 (±12.1) min. The diameter of the bone window was about 2.0 cm-3.0 cm, and the bone flap was restored. Among the 13 patients with primary TN, 12 (92.3%) exhibited complete relief of pain and 1 had significant relief. Complications of surgery included facial sensory numbness in 1 case, vertigo in 2 cases, and herpes at the corners of the mouth in 1 case. Of the 13 patients with HFS, 12 (92.3%) had complete relief of facial twitching symptoms and 1 had significant relief, and the complications included mild facial palsy in 2 (15.4%) cases and facial sensory numbness in another 2 (15.4%) cases. The mean follow-up time after surgery ranged from 6-16 months, and 1 of 26 patients experienced recurrence of HFS during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative multimodal image fusion technology can provide adequate preoperative assessment for patients and assistance in designing surgical approaches, which is an important guideline for MVD surgery via the suboccipital retrosigmoid approach for primary TN and facial muscle spasm.

Cinematic rendering to improve visualization of supplementary and ectopic teeth using CT datasets

OBJECTIVES

Ectopic, impacted, and supplementary teeth are the number one reason for cross-sectional imaging in pediatric dentistry. The accurate post-processing of acquired data sets is crucial to obtain precise, yet also intuitively understandable three-dimensional (3D) models, which facilitate clinical decision-making and improve treatment outcomes. Cinematic rendering (CR) is anovel visualization technique using physically based volume rendering to create photorealistic images from DICOM data. The aim of the present study was to tailor pre-existing CR reconstruction parameters for use in dental imaging with the example of the diagnostic 3D visualization of ectopic, impacted, and supplementary teeth.

METHODS

CR was employed for the volumetric image visualization of midface CT data sets. Predefined reconstruction parameters were specifically modified to visualize the presented dental pathologies, dentulous jaw, and isolated teeth. The 3D spatial relationship of the teeth, as well as their structural relationship with the antagonizing dentition, could immediately be investigated and highlighted by separate, interactive 3D visualization after segmentation through windowing.

RESULTS

To the best of our knowledge, CR has not been implemented for the visualization of supplementary and ectopic teeth segmented from the surrounding bone because the software has not yet provided appropriate customized reconstruction parameters for dental imaging. When employing our new, modified reconstruction parameters, its application presents a fast approach to obtain realistic visualizations of both dental and osseous structures.

CONCLUSIONS

CR enables dentists and oral surgeons to gain an improved 3D understanding of anatomical structures, allowing for more intuitive treatment planning and patient communication.

Effects of different virtual monoenergetic CT image data on chest wall post-processing "unfolded ribs" and proposal of an algorithm improvement

PURPOSE

To find out if the use of different virtual monoenergetic data sets enabled by DECT technology might have a negative impact on post-processing applications, specifically in case of the "unfolded ribs" algorithm. Metal or beam hardening artifacts are suspected to generate image artifacts and thus reduce diagnostic accuracy. This paper tries to find out how the generation of "unfolded rib" CT image reformates is influenced by different virtual monoenergetic CT images and looks for possible improvement of the post-processing tool.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Between March 2021 and April 2021, thin-slice dual-energy CT image data of the chest were used creating "unfolded rib" reformates. The same data sets were analyzed in three steps: first the gold standard with the original algorithm on mixed image data sets followed by the original algorithm on different keV levels (40-120 keV) and finally using a modified algorithm which in the first step used segmentation based on mixed image data sets, followed by segmentation based on different keV levels. Image quality (presence of artifacts), lesion and fracture detectability were assessed for all series.

RESULTS

Both, the original and the modified algorithm resulted in more artifact-free image data sets compared to the gold standard. The modified algorithm resulted in significantly more artifact-free image data sets at the keV-edges (40-120 keV) compared the original algorithm. Especially "black artifacts" and pseudo-lesions, potentially inducing false positive findings, could be reduced in all keV level with the modified algorithm. Detection of focal sclerotic, lytic or mixed (k = 0.990-1.000) lesions was very good for all keV levels. The Fleiss-kappa test for detection of fresh and old rib fractures was ≥ 0.997.

CONCLUSION

The use of different virtual monoenergetic keVs for the "unfolded rib" algorithm is generating different artifacts. Segmentation-based artifacts could be eliminated by the proposed new algorithm, showing the best results at 70-80 keV.

Initial Characterization of Focal Bone Lesions with Conventional Radiographs or Computed Tomography: Diagnostic Performance and Interobserver Agreement Assessment

Objectives: To ascertain the role of CT and conventional radiographs for the initial characterization of focal bone lesions.Methods: Images from 184 patients with confirmed bone tumors included in an ethics committee-approved study were retrospectively evaluated. The reference for benign-malignant distribution was based on histological analysis and long-term follow-up. Radiographs and CT features were analyzed by 2 independent musculoskeletal radiologists blinded to the final diagnosis. Lesion margins, periosteal reaction, cortical lysis, endosteal scalloping, presence of pathologic fracture, and lesion mineralization were evaluated. Results: The benign-malignant distribution in the study population was 68.5-31.5% (126 benign and 58 malignant). In the lesions that could be seen in both radiographs and CT, the performance of these methods for the benign-malignant differentiation was similar (accuracy varying from 72.8% to 76.5%). The interobserver agreement for the overall evaluation of lesion aggressiveness was considerably increased on CT compared to radiographs (Kappa of .63 vs .22). With conventional radiographs, 18 (9.7%) and 20 (10.8%) of the lesions evaluated were not seen respectively by readers 1 and 2. Among these unseen lesions, 50%-61.1% were located in the axial skeleton. Compared to radiographs, the number of lesions with cortical lysis and endosteal scalloping was 26-34% higher with CT. Conclusion: Although radiographs remain the primary imaging tool for lesions in the peripheral skeleton, CT should be performed for axial lesions. CT imaging can assess the extent of perilesional bone lysis more precisely than radiographs with a better evaluation of lesion fracture risk.

Photorealistic Depiction of Intracranial Tumors Using Cinematic Rendering of Volumetric 3T MRI Data

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES

Cinematic Rendering (CR) incorporates a complex lightning model that creates photorealistic models from isotropic 3D imaging data. The utility of CR in depicting volumetric MRI data for pre-therapeutic planning is discussed, with intracranial tumors as a demonstrative example.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We present a series of Cinematically Rendered intracranial tumors and discuss their utility in multidisciplinary pre-therapeutic evaluation. Isotropic, high-resolution, volumetric MRI data was collected, and CR was performed utilizing a proprietary application, "Anatomy Education" Siemens, Munich, Germany.

RESULTS

Discrimination of cortex to white matter, brain surface to vessels, subarachnoid space to cortex and skull to intracranial structures was achieved and optimized by using various display settings on the Anatomy education application. Progressive removal of tissue layers allowed for a comprehensive assessment of the entire region of interest. Complex, small structures were demonstrated in very high detail. The depth and architecture of the sulci was appreciated in a format that more closely mimicked gross pathology than traditional imaging modalities. With appropriate display settings, the relationship of the cortical surface to the adjacent vasculature was also delineated.

CONCLUSION

CR depicts the anatomic location of brain tumors in a format that depicts the relative proximity of adjacent structures in all dimensions and degrees of freedom. This allows for better conceptualization of the pathology and greater ease of communication between radiologists and other clinical teams, especially in the context of pretherapeutic planning.

Three-Dimensional Printing and Fracture Mapping in Pelvic and Acetabular Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Three-dimensional printing and fracture mapping technology is gaining popularity for preoperative planning of fractures. The aim of this meta-analysis is to further understand for the effects of 3D printing and fracture mapping on intraoperative parameters, postoperative complications, and functional recovery on pelvic and acetabular fractures. The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane and Web of Science databases were systematically searched for articles according to established criteria. A total of 17 studies were included in this study, of which 3 were RCTs, with a total of 889 patients, including 458 patients treated by traditional open reduction and internal fixation methods and 431 patients treated using 3D printing strategies. It was revealed that three-dimensional printing and fracture mapping reduced intraoperative surgical duration (RoM 0.74; 95% CI; 0.66–0.83; I² = 93%), and blood loss (RoM 0.71; 95% CI; 0.63–0.81; I² = 71%). as compared to traditional surgical approaches. In addition, there was significantly lower exposure to intraoperative imaging (RoM 0.36; 95% CI; 0.17–0.76; I² = 99%), significantly lower postoperative complications (OR 0.42; 95% CI; 0.22–0.78; I² = 9%) and significantly higher excellent/good reduction (OR 1.53; 95% CI; 1.08–2.17; I² = 0%) in the three-dimensional printing and fracture mapping group. Further stratification results with only prospective studies showed similar trends. Three-dimensional printing and fracture mapping technology has potential in enhancing treatment of complex fractures by improving surgical related factors and functional outcomes and therefore could be considered as a viable tool for future clinical applications.

Visualization of acute aortic injury with cinematic rendering

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the appearance of traumatic aortic injuries with the novel 3-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) visualization technique known as cinematic rendering (CR). CR uses a novel lighting model to create photorealistic images with excellent anatomic detail for improved depiction of the extent of traumatic aortic injuries. Four patients with acute traumatic aortic injury identified on thoracic CT angiography were analyzed by creating standard 3D volume-rendered reconstructions and CR images on an independent 3D workstation. In this series of four patients, we present the typical patterns of aortic injury imaging findings and complications associated with traumatic aortic injury, with an emphasis on the utilization of the novel 3D technique of CR. CR can provide realistic imaging of the thoracic aortic contour with excellent spatial details. This methodology allows for an accurate assessment of aortic injury and optimal preoperative planning in patients with traumatic thoracic aortic injury.

Imaging in Hip Arthroplasty Management Part 2: Postoperative Diagnostic Imaging Strategy

Hip arthroplasty (HA) is a frequently used procedure with high success rates, but 7% to 27% of the patients complain of persistent postsurgical pain 1 to 4 years post-operation. HA complications depend on the post-operative delay, the type of material used, the patient’s characteristics, and the surgical approach. Radiographs are still the first imaging modality used for routine follow-up, in asymptomatic and painful cases. CT and MRI used to suffer from metallic artifacts but are nowadays central in HA complications diagnosis, both having their advantages and drawbacks. Additionally, there is no consensus on the optimal imaging workup for HA complication diagnosis, which may have an impact on patient management. After a brief reminder about the different types of prostheses, this article reviews their normal and pathologic appearance, according to each imaging modality, keeping in mind that few abnormalities might be present, not anyone requiring treatment, depending on the clinical scenario. A diagnostic imaging workup is also discussed, to aid the therapist in his imaging studies prescription and the radiologist in their practical aspects.

Elbow Stiffness Imaging: A Practical Diagnostic and Pretherapeutic Approach

Loss of elbow motion can lead to disability in everyday gestures, recreational activities, and work. Unfortunately, the elbow joint is particularly prone to stiffness because of its complex anatomy and biomechanics. The etiology of elbow stiffness is varied and must be diagnosed accurately in order to allow optimal treatment, which may be challenging for surgeons and physiotherapists. Its treatment can be either conservative, arthroscopic or surgical, with a trend for arthroscopic procedures when conservative treatment fails. There is no consensus on the optimal imaging workup for elbow joint stiffness, which may have an impact on patient management. This article reviews the current classification systems of elbow stiffness and the various imaging techniques used for diagnosis. Report checklists and clarifications on the role of each imaging method, as well as the imaging findings of normal and stiff elbows, are presented, leading to a proposed diagnostic algorithm. The main concern in imaging is to determine the cause of elbow stiffness, as many concomitant abnormalities might be present depending on the clinical scenario.

Ultra-high resolution computed tomography of joints: practical recommendations for acquisition protocol optimization

Background

To assess the influence on the spatial resolution of various Ultra-high-resolution computed tomography (CT) parameters and provide practical recommendations for acquisition protocol optimization in musculoskeletal imaging.

Methods

All acquisitions were performed with an Ultra-high resolution scanner, and variations of the following parameters were evaluated: field-of-view (150-300 mm), potential (80-140 KVp), current (25-250 mAs), focal spot size (0.4×0.5 to 0.8×1.3 mm²), slice thickness (0.25-0.5 mm), reconstruction matrix (512×512 to 2048×2048), and iso-centering (up to 85 mm off-center). Two different image reconstruction algorithms were evaluated: hybrid iterative reconstruction (HIR) and model-based iterative reconstruction (MBIR). CATPHAN 600 phantom images were analyzed to calculate the number of visible line pairs per centimeter (lp/cm). Task transfer function (TTF) curves were calculated to quantitatively evaluate spatial resolution. Cadaveric knee acquisitions were also performed.

Results

Under the conditions studied, the factor that most intensely influenced spatial resolution was the matrix size (additional visualization of up to 8 lp/cm). Increasing the matrix from 512×512 to 2048×2048 led to a 28.2% increase in TTF10% values with a high-dose protocol and a 5.6% increase with a low-dose protocol with no change in the number of visually distinguishable line pairs. The second most important factor affecting spatial resolution was the tube output (29.6% TTF10% gain and 5 additional lp/cm visualized), followed by the reconstruction algorithm choice and lateral displacement (both with a 4 lp/cm gain). Decreasing the slice thickness from 0.5 to 0.25 mm, led to an increase of 3 lp/cm (from 17 to 20 lp/cm) and a 17.3% increase in TTF10% values with no change in the "in-plane" spatial resolution.

Conclusions

This study provides practical recommendations for spatial resolution optimization using Ultra-high-resolution CT.

Thumb Injuries and Instabilities. Part 1: Anatomy, Kinesiology, and Imaging Techniques of the Thumb

The unique anatomical characteristics of the thumb offer a broad range of motion and the ability to oppose thumb and finger, an essential function for grasping. The motor function of the thumb and its orientation make it particularly vulnerable to trauma. Pathologic lesions encountered in this joint are varied, and imaging techniques play a crucial role in injury detection and characterization. Despite advances in diagnostic accuracy, acute thumb injuries pose a challenge for the radiologist. The complex and delicate anatomy requires meticulous and technically flawless image acquisition. Standard radiography and ultrasonography are currently the most frequently used imaging techniques. Computed tomography is most often indicated for complex fractures and dislocations, and magnetic resonance imaging may be useful in equivocal cases. In this article, we present the relevant anatomy and imaging techniques of the thumb.

First in situ 3D visualization of the human cardiac conduction system and its transformation associated with heart contour and inclination

Current advanced imaging modalities with applied tracing and processing techniques provide excellent visualization of almost all human internal structures in situ; however, the actual 3D internal arrangement of the human cardiac conduction system (CCS) is still unknown. This study is the first to document the successful 3D visualization of the CCS from the sinus node to the bundle branches within the human body, based on our specialized physical micro-dissection and its CT imaging. The 3D CCS transformation by cardiac inclination changes from the standing to the lying position is also provided. Both actual dissection and its CT image-based simulation identified that when the cardiac inclination changed from standing to lying, the sinus node shifted from the dorso-superior to the right outer position and the atrioventricular conduction axis changed from a vertical to a leftward horizontal position. In situ localization of the human CCS provides accurate anatomical localization with morphometric data, and it indicates the useful correlation between heart inclination and CCS rotation axes for predicting the variable and invisible human CCS in the living body. Advances in future imaging modalities and methodology are essential for further accurate in situ 3D CCS visualization.

Cinematic rendering of CT angiography for visualization of complex vascular anatomy after hybrid endovascular aortic aneurysm repair

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the utility of cinematic rendering (CR) techniques for imaging of patients who have undergone hybrid repair of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms that are difficult to assess given anatomic complexity, particularly in the emergency setting. In this pictorial essay, we will explain why CR techniques are uniquely suited to improving anatomic visualization in patients with complex postoperative vascular anatomy. Verification of vessel patency is critical to optimal care of these patients in any setting, particularly in the emergency patient when clinical history may be lacking. Cinematic rendering (CR) is a recently developed CT post-processing technique for creating photorealistic anatomic visualization. Hybrid abdominal aortic aneurysm repairs involve the use of multiple tortuous and overlapping grafts to preserve blood flow to visceral arteries, which are difficult to adequately evaluate using standard orthogonal planes and with traditional VR techniques. Several examples of complex aortic repairs show the utility of CR for improved visualization of these structures. CR improves upon standard 3D volumetric techniques through improved depiction of the spatial relationships of anatomic structures in 3D space, permitting near life-like visualization that allows the imager to simplify the visualization of highly complex anatomy.

CT angiography and MRI of hand vascular lesions: technical considerations and spectrum of imaging findings

Vascular lesions of the hand are common and are distinct from vascular lesions elsewhere because of the terminal vascular network in this region, the frequent hand exposure to trauma and microtrauma, and the superficial location of the lesions. Vascular lesions in the hand may be secondary to local pathology, a proximal source of emboli, or systemic diseases with vascular compromise. In most cases, ischaemic conditions are investigated with Doppler ultrasonography. However, computed tomography angiography (CTA) or dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is often necessary for treatment planning. MR imaging is frequently performed with MRA to distinguish between vascular malformations, vascular tumours, and perivascular tumours. Some vascular tumours preferentially affect the hand, such as pyogenic granulomas or spindle cell haemangiomas associated with Maffucci syndrome. Glomus tumours are the most frequent perivascular tumours of the hand. The purpose of this article is to describe the state-of-the-art acquisition protocols and illustrate the different patterns of vascular lesions and perivascular tumours of the hand.