Is MRI an effective clinical tool for imaging trabeculae bone and structure? A review
Altokhais, Reham Saad . 2012
Abstract:
Introduction
Bone strength is influenced by several factors namely; bone structure, architecture and density. However, density measurements derived from DXA alone do not provide enough information on bone strength or fracture status. Research has been carried out to find a non-invasive, non-ionizing method capable of assessing bone structure and monitoring changes that may result from treatment. The aim of this paper is to review the evidence on MRI as an effective clinical tool in assessing trabecular bone strength and structure.
Methods
A literature search through the scientific data base was performed to find relevant published articles from 1990 to 2012. Studies that fulfilled the criteria were evaluated using a scoring sheet and a threshold value to ensure quality of studies.
Results
The search initially resulted in 1226 articles, of which 7 studies were included after scoring the studies and using the cut off value. These studies were performed in clinical conditions as either trials or prospective studies to evaluate the ability of MRI in assessing trabecular bone and its ability to monitor changes due to therapy.
Conclusion
Based on the findings of this review, although MRI demonstrated potential in evaluating and monitoring trabecular bone, it does not seem that it will currently replace DXA in assessing bone strength, as it has several limitations that must be overcome before it can establish a role as a clinical tool for the evaluation of trabecular bone and structure.
Key words
MRI, trabecular bone, bone structure, high resolution MRI, T2*.
Abstract:
Introduction