Micro-imaging of implanted scaffolds using combined MRI and micro-CT

Rationale and objectives: Thanks to the advanced studies in biomaterial engineering a panoply of polymers can be used to manufacture porous scaffolds for bone tissue regeneration. Suitability of the scaffold for its purpose is determined by factors like size of the pores, its orientation and shape, as well as bio-compatibility of the material. Even though a variety of analysis methods is available for in vitro studies, investigating the process of bone reconstruction on implanted scaffold meets with difficulties. Methods and materials: Polylactide porous sponges imbued in hydroxyapatite were implanted into long bones of white New Zealand rabbits for 3 months. The bones obtained from the animals were subjected to MRI and mu CT imaging. The obtained images were subsequently fused together. Results and conclusions: Combined MRI and mu CT resulted in high resolution diagnostic images which allow for: implant positioning, inflammation divulgement, rating degree of implant resorption, observation of newly formed trabeculae, texture analysis and other quantitative measurements. (c) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.