X-ray refraction contrast imaging with in-line configuration on human and rat osteoarthritis of knee joints

Abstract

    Objective: The object of this study is to investigate the visualization capabilities of X-ray refraction contrast imaging with in-line configuration when assessing the early form of osteoarthritis (OA).
    Methods: We prepared resected human femoral bone with known OA as well as with OAmodel rat induced by anterior cruciate ligament transaction. X-ray refraction contrast imaging was conducted at the Japan Synchrotron Radiation Research Institute (SPring8: Super Photon ring 8GeV Hyogo, Japan) with in-line configuration and compared to X-ray absorption contrast imaging scanned by a conventional X-ray source.
    Results: Refraction contrast imaging revealed articular cartilage and microstructure of bone trabecula with remarkable edge effects that could not be detected solely with absorption contrast imaging methods.
    Conclusion: We think these findings are particular to refraction contrast imaging with in-line configuration. When evaluating bony lesion and cartilage detail from early osteoarthritic disease, this method might have future potential.