Quantitative analysis of induced tendon degeneration using magic angle insensitive ultra-short echo time magnetization transfer

Motivation: Ultra-short echo time (UTE) imaging combined with magnetization transfer (MT) allows for magic angle effects (MAE)-insensitive quantification of short T2 tissues, but clinically feasible applications are rare. Goal(s): The objectives of this study were to qualitatively and quantitatively assess changes in bovine flexor tendons before and after collagen degradation. Approach: 3D UTE MT imaging was compared to UTE T2* mapping at 0°, 27°, 55° and 90° relative to the B0 field within a clinically feasible acquisition time. Results: Compared to UTE T2* mapping, UTE MT imaging was significantly less affected by the MAE and demonstrated a better performance in differentiating partial tendon tears. Impact: UTE MT imaging is a reliable and reproducible method for quantifying tendon degeneration that is robust to the magic angel effect, acquired within a clinically feasible scan time, and could therefore be a useful tool in the diagnosis of tendinopathies.