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Interphalangeal joint cartilage: high-spatial-resolution in vivo MR T2 mapping--a feasibility study
Jelena Lazovic-Stojkovic1, Timothy J Mosher, Harvey E Smith
1Department of Radiology, Pennsylvania State University Center for NMR Research, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, 500 University Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, USA.
Radiology
|August 20, 2004
Summary
Magnetic resonance (MR) T2 mapping is feasible for the index finger's proximal interphalangeal joint. This technique reveals cartilage T2 variations, similar to knee cartilage, aiding in understanding joint health.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Cartilage health assessment is crucial for joint function.
- Magnetic resonance (MR) T2 mapping shows promise for evaluating cartilage composition.
- Limited data exists on T2 mapping feasibility in small hand joints.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of MR T2 mapping for the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint of the index finger.
- To characterize cartilage T2 values and spatial variations in the PIP joint.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a 3.0-T MR imager to acquire T2 maps of the index finger PIP joint.
- Achieved an in-plane resolution of 39 micrometers.
- Acquisition time was 9.6 minutes for all subjects.
Main Results:
- Successfully obtained cartilage T2 maps from five asymptomatic subjects.
- Observed spatial T2 variations consistent with knee cartilage findings, showing increased T2 values towards the articular surface.
- Demonstrated the feasibility of high-resolution T2 mapping in small, non-weight-bearing joints.
Conclusions:
- MR T2 mapping is a feasible technique for evaluating the cartilage of the index finger PIP joint.
- This method may help differentiate local biomechanical and systemic factors influencing cartilage T2 values in non-weight-bearing joints.