Detecting Cellular Microstructural Changes of Bone Tumors with the IMPULSED MRI

Motivation: The potential of cellular microstructural information detected by the IMPULSED (imaging microstructural parameters using limited spectrally edited diffusion) MRI for evaluation of bone tumors has not been explored. Goal(s): To assess the effectiveness of microstructural mapping by IMPULSED MRI in distinguishing between malignant and benign bone tumors. Approach: This prospective study included 29 patients of bone tumors. The microstructural parameters were fitted with a two-compartment model to estimate mean cell diameter, intracellular volume fraction, extracellular diffusivity and cellularity. Results: Intracellular volume fraction and cellularity show potential diagnostic values in differentiating benign and malignant bone tumors. Impact: This study revealed the changes in quantitative microstructural mapping across the spectrum of bone tumors. Intracellular volume fraction and cellularity are potential markers for differentiating benign and malignant bone tumors.