Musculoskeletal MRI

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a major cause of disability - 75% of people over 60 will suffer from OA. In OA, articular cartilage degenerates, leaving no cushion for the joint to articulate, resulting in pain.  Acute injuries such as ACL and meniscal tears increase the risk of OA. MRI offers excellent soft tissue contrast, and is the most accurate non-invasive way to image cartilage, menisci, ligaments and tendons.

Our research in OA is directed toward quantitative imaging that can assess OA before symptoms occur.  This would be useful to develop, evaluate, and ultimately recommend treatments for OA.  We have developed numerous 3D methods for high-resolution acquisition of knee images that can be used to quantitatively map T2, T2*, diffusion and sodium content.

Relevant Publications