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MR imaging truncation artifacts can create a false laminar appearance in cartilage
L R Frank1, J Brossmann, R B Buxton
1Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Diego, CA 92161, USA.
AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|February 1, 1997
Summary
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) truncation artifacts can mimic cartilage laminae, potentially misrepresenting joint health. These artifacts also alter cartilage width measurements in MR images.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Imaging
- Radiology
- Medical Physics
Background:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is crucial for evaluating cartilage.
- Accurate assessment of cartilage morphology is vital for diagnosing joint conditions.
- Understanding image artifacts is essential for reliable interpretation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the appearance of cartilage laminae on MR images.
- To determine if truncation artifacts contribute to the observed laminar appearance.
- To assess the impact of artifacts on cartilage width measurements.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical modeling of truncation artifacts was performed.
- Numerical simulations using a ring model analyzed artifact patterns.
- MR imaging of human patellae at various resolutions was conducted.
- Image resolution was systematically reduced to simulate artifactual conditions.
Main Results:
- Truncation artifacts can create false laminar patterns and alter intensity values in cartilage MR images.
- Artifacts can change the apparent width of cartilage, with variations up to 22% in intensity.
- A trilaminar appearance is most pronounced when cartilage thickness is four times the image resolution.
- Artifacts are dependent on the angle within the imaging plane and unequal resolutions.
Conclusions:
- Truncation artifacts can lead to an artifactual laminar appearance in cartilage.
- These artifacts can significantly alter the apparent width of cartilage on MR images.
- Careful consideration of truncation artifacts is necessary for accurate cartilage assessment.