Related Experiment Videos
Effect of titanium endoprostheses on bone mineral density measurements, using quantitative computed tomography
M D Markel1, R L Morin, R G Roy
1Orthopedic Biomechanics Laboratory, Mayo Clinic/Mayo Foundation, Rochester, MN 55905.
American Journal of Veterinary Research
|November 1, 1992
Summary
Quantitative computed tomography (CT) can measure bone density near titanium implants. While titanium alters measurements in solutions, it causes a predictable, correctable increase in bone density, enabling accurate assessment of bone near endoprostheses.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Radiology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Quantitative computed tomography (CT) is vital for bone mineral density (BMD) assessment, especially for osteoporosis.
- Metallic implants cause significant image artifacts (starburst streaking) in CT scans.
- Titanium alloy, a less-attenuating material, shows promise in reducing these artifacts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of titanium alloy endoprostheses on quantitative CT bone mineral density measurements.
- To determine if CT can accurately assess bone mineral density in the presence of titanium implants.
Main Methods:
- Utilized canine bone specimens and calibration standards to simulate quantitative CT imaging.
- Introduced titanium segmental endoprostheses to assess their effect on BMD measurements.
- Analyzed changes in BMD readings in calibration solutions and cortical bone.
Main Results:
- Titanium alloy decreased BMD in calibration solutions by 6.8% to 17.7%.
- Titanium alloy increased cortical bone BMD by a systematic 5.3%.
- The presence of titanium did not affect the repeatability of CT scans, indicating systematic and correctable errors.
Conclusions:
- Quantitative CT can accurately measure bone mineral density in cortical bone adjacent to titanium endoprostheses.
- The observed increase in BMD due to titanium is systematic and can be corrected.
- This technique holds potential for evaluating bone health around metallic implants.