The application of 3D-ZTE technique in ex vivo ankle cortical bone MRI of adolescent pigs: A comparison with CT examination

Motivation: Exploring non-ionizing radiation alternatives to CT examination for diagnosing bone diseases in children is clinically desirable. Goal(s): To compare the visualization of the bone cortex around ankle joints of adolescent pig between 3D-ZTE MRI and CT techniques. Approach: A total of 12 specimens were subjected to both 3D-ZTE MRI and CT examination. The thicknesses of bone cortex were measured and compared between MRI and CT images. Results: There was no significant difference in the thicknesses of bone cortex in the inner and outer sides of tibia, fibula, and talus between 3D-ZTE and CT. Impact: 3D-ZTE technique can obtain CT-like images that accurately measure the thickness of bone cortex without ionizing radiation. This technique holds the potential for clinical applications in children with bone diseases, providing a safe alternative to traditional CT imaging.