Bone structure and mineralization demonstrated using synchrotron radiation computed tomography (SR-CT) in animal models: preliminary findings

J Bone Miner Metab. 2003;21(5):287-93. doi: 10.1007/s00774-003-0422-x.

Abstract

We investigated the ability of synchrotron radiation computed tomography (SR-CT) to demonstrate trabecular microstructure, detail of trabecular surfaces, and mineralization of bones. Eight rat vertebrae, six rat tibiae, and eight minipig vertebrae were scanned using SR-CT at the synchrotron radiation facility Super Photon ring-8GeV (SPring-8). Images obtained using conventional micro-CT, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and contact microradiography (CMR) were compared with the SR-CT images. SR-CT showed high image quality without visible partial volume effect. Three-dimensional SR-CT revealed shallow concavities in the bone surface, which were considered to correspond to osteoclastic resorption areas, as well as the connectivity, anisotropy, and shape (rod- or platelike) of trabeculae. Two-dimensional SR-CT showed different density along the surface of the trabecular bone, indicating the degree of bone mineralization. In conclusion, SR-CT seems to be a useful tool for delineating trabecular surfaces, evaluating bone mineralization, and revealing precise trabecular structure.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bone and Bones / diagnostic imaging*
  • Calcification, Physiologic*
  • Female
  • Models, Animal
  • Rats
  • Spine / diagnostic imaging
  • Synchrotrons*
  • Tibia / diagnostic imaging
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods*