Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 20, 2026
08:03
Midface Hypoplasia and Cranial Base Morphology in Syndromic Craniosynostosis: A Comparative Analysis Study Using a Predictive Regression Model
Published on: November 4, 2025
The trochlear pre-ossification center: a normal developmental stage and potential pitfall on MR images
Camilo Jaimes1, Mauricio Jimenez, Diana Marin
1Department of Radiology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 34th Street and Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
Pediatric Radiology
|July 20, 2012
Summary
The pre-ossification center in children
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Radiology
- Skeletal Development
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Background:
- Hypertrophic changes in epiphyseal cartilage before ossification are termed the pre-ossification center.
- Recognizing pre-ossification center appearance on MRI is crucial to differentiate normal development from pathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- Characterize the trochlear pre-ossification center on MRI.
- Investigate age and gender-related differences in trochlear development.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of MRI scans from 61 children.
- Categorization of trochleas into three types based on signal intensity (SI).
- Comparison of trochlear types with patient age and gender.
Main Results:
- No significant age difference between genders.
- Type 1: homogeneous SI. Type 2: high SI focus (pre-ossification center). Type 3: low SI.
- Significant age differences found for Type 3 trochleas (P < 0.001); positive correlation between trochlear type and age (r = 0.53).
Conclusions:
- Trochlear development follows a predictable pattern.
- MRI signal characteristics of the pre-ossification center indicate normal chondrocyte hypertrophy and matrix water changes.
