Cluster analysis of quantitative MRI T₂ and T_1ρ relaxation times of cartilage identifies differences between healthy and ACL-injured individuals at 3T.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

To identify focal lesions of elevated MRI T₂ and T_1ρ relaxation times in articular cartilage of an ACL-injured group using a novel cluster analysis technique.

Materials and methods

Eighteen ACL-injured patients underwent 3T MRI T₂ and T_1ρ relaxometry at baseline, 6 months and 1 year and six healthy volunteers at baseline, 1 day and 1 year. Clusters of contiguous pixels above or below T₂ and T_1ρ intensity and area thresholds were identified on a projection map of the 3D femoral cartilage surface. The total area of femoral cartilage plate covered by clusters (%CA) was split into areas above (%CA+) and below (%CA-) the thresholds and the differences in %CA(+ or -) over time in the ACL-injured group were d

SUBMITTER: Monu UD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5359021 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature