scholarly journals Optimization of low-dose scan parameters in dual-energy computed tomography for displaying the anterior cruciate ligament

2020 ◽  
Vol 48 (7) ◽  
pp. 030006052092787
Author(s):  
Rui Bai ◽  
Xiangdong Li ◽  
Rurui Li ◽  
Xiaohua He ◽  
Zhibo Wen

Objective This study was performed to assess low-dose scan parameters in dual-energy computed tomography (CT) for displaying the anterior cruciate ligament. Methods Dual-energy CT scans with low and standard dose parameters, respectively, were performed in nine human knee joint specimens. Eighteen imaging data sets for cruciate ligament specimens were obtained and processed. Statistical analysis was performed for signal-to-noise ratios of the CT images and subjective scores. Results Comparable signal-to-noise ratios and subjective image quality scores by evaluators in dual-energy CT anterior cruciate ligament images between the low and standard-dose groups were observed. Conclusion Low-dose scan parameters do not compromise the outcomes of anterior cruciate ligament imaging.

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lifeng Yin ◽  
Hua Zhang ◽  
Junbo Liu ◽  
xingyu zhang ◽  
zhengxing wen ◽  
...  

Abstract Background: Cortical suspensory femoral fixation is commonly performed for graft fixation of the femur in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using hamstring tendons. This study aimed to compare the morphology of femoral tunnel and graft insertion between fixed-length loop devices (FLD) and adjustable-length loop devices (ALD) using computed tomography (CT) images on the first day after hamstring ACL reconstruction. Methods: Overall, 94 patients who underwent ACL reconstruction from January 2016 to January 2021 were included. For femoral graft fixation, FLD (Smith & Nephew, ENDOBUTTON) and ALD (DePuy Synthes, Mitek sports medicine, RIGIDLOOP Adjustable cortical system) were used in 56 and 38 patients, respectively (FLD and ALD groups). For evaluation of the morphology of the humeral tunnel and graft depth, CT scans were performed immediately on the first postoperative day. The gap distance between the top of the graft and the socket tunnel end, the length of lateral bone preservation, and the depth of graft insertion were measured on the CT images. Results: The gap distance and bone preservation significantly differed between the two groups (1.90±1.81 mm and 14.35±4.67 mm in ALD groups; 7.08±2.63 mm and 7.35±3.62 mm in FLD groups, respectively; both P values < 0.01). The graft insertion depth did not significantly differ between the groups. Conclusion: The ALD group had a smaller gap distance, better bone preservation, and a similar graft insertion length in the femoral tunnel when compared to the FLD group. Based on these findings, ALD might be better for bone preservation and tunnel utilization in patients with short femoral tunnels. Trial registration: retrospectively registered


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