R1rho Dispersion Imaging to Detect Proteoglycan Loss in the Intervertebral Discs in Swine Models

Motivation: R1rho imaging can provide novel information on dynamic processes within tissues, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis of the parameters of chemical exchange. Goal(s): To examine the feasibility of using R1rho dispersion imaging to detect proteoglycan loss in spine disc degeneration. Approach: R1rho imaging was performed in the intervertebral discs of swine spine specimens before and after the treatment to induce proteoglycan loss. Student's t-test was employed to examine the statistical significance of the R1rho dispersion before and after the treatment. Results: The Student's t-test showed significant difference between the R1rho dispersion measured before and after the treatment on the disc specimens. Impact: The study suggested that R1rho dispersion can detect the proteoglycan loss in spine discs, potentially making it a promising tool for the early detection of disc degeneration.