Quantitative UTE MRI T2* Mapping for Detecting Partial ACL Injuries: A Pilot Study

Motivation: Conventional imaging struggles with ACL injuries due to rapid T2*-decay. UTE-MRI offers a solution by enabling the measurement of T2*-values, potentially improving the detection of partial ACL tears. Goal(s): This study aimed to detect partial ACL injuries in vivo using UTE-MRI and to compare T2*-values to healthy ACLs. Approach: Seven healthy volunteers and five patients with partial ACL tears were scanned. T2*-maps were analyzed along the ACL's length, with ROC curves used to differentiate between healthy and injured tissues. Results: Healthy ACLs showed a clear distal-to-proximal T2*-decay, while injured ACLs had more uniform T2*-values, with localized elevation in damaged regions, allowing for differentiation. Impact: UTE MRI T2*-mapping offers a non-invasive method for detecting partial ACL tears, which are often missed by traditional imaging. This technique could enhance early diagnosis, guide treatment decisions, and improve patient outcomes in ligament injury management.