Dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) collagen density mapping in the detection of canine cruciate ligament disease

Dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) has emerged as a diagnostic tool for detecting human cruciate ligament rupture. DECT offers enhanced soft tissue characterisation through the acquisition of an extra attenuation measurement at a second photon energy. The goal of this study was to evaluate the added value of DECT collagen mapping in the diagnosis of cruciate ligament disease in dogs, in comparison to the current diagnostic tools. Post-mortem, two abnormal cases are discussed in comparison to a reference stifle joint. The stifle joints were scanned with DECT (single-source Canon Aquilion ONE Vision Edition) and low-field MRI (Vet-MR Grande, 0.25T, Esoate). Next, arthroscopy (Arthrex NanoScope™) was performed followed by intra-articular contrast CT. Findings were confirmed by gross post-mortem findings and histopathology. DECT collagen mapping enabled a non-invasive diagnosis of cranial cruciate ligament rupture (without the need of intra-articular contrast) and internal ligament degeneration, in agreement with arthroscopy and magnetic resonance imaging, respectively. Based on these cases, DECT shows promise as an effective and non-invasive diagnostic tool in the detection of canine cruciate ligament disease. These preliminary findings are drawn from an ongoing diagnostic accuracy study, which will provide a more comprehensive overview.