Multi-Vendor Multi-Site Novel Accelerated MRI Relaxometry for Early Detection of Cartilage Degeneration in Osteoarthritis

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating advanced MRI imaging techniques to improve early detection and assessment of cartilage health in people at risk for osteoarthritis (OA). Current diagnosis relies on X-rays and clinical signs that detect late-stage OA, so this study focuses on developing faster, more reliable MRI methods using T1c1 and T2 relaxation times. These imaging biomarkers may help identify early cartilage degeneration and disease progression, addressing a critical need for better tools in clinical trials and patient care. The study will develop and test novel accelerated MRI methods to reduce imaging time while maintaining accuracy. It involves creating calibration phantoms and standardizing protocols across MRI systems from multiple vendors (Siemens, GE, Philips). The research includes four groups: healthy volunteers for technique evaluation, traveling volunteers scanned at multiple sites for cross-validation, patients with acute ACL tears to study early OA changes, and matched controls. Scans will be performed at baseline and after one year to compare standard and accelerated imaging methods. Participants will undergo MRI scans using the new and standard techniques to measure cartilage health and degeneration. The study assesses site and vendor reproducibility and tracks changes in patients with ACL injuries. Outcomes include knee MRI results over several years, with detailed analysis of imaging consistency and cartilage condition. The total study duration for participants varies by group, with some scanned multiple times over up to five years to monitor cartilage changes and validate the imaging approach.

Multi-Vendor Multi-Site Novel Accelerated MRI Relaxometry