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High-resolution peripheral QCT imaging of bone micro-structure in adolescents

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Abstract

Summary

We examined the feasibility of high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) to assess bone microstructure in adolescents. Low radiation doses and clear images were produced using a region of interest (ROI) at 8% of tibial length. Active growth plates were observed in 33 participants. HR-pQCT safely assessed important elements of bone microstructure in adolescents.

Introduction

We examined the feasibility and safety of HR-pQCT to assess tibial bone microstructure in adolescents.

Methods

We used XtremeCT (Scanco Medical) to assess bone microstructure at the distal tibia in 278 participants (15–20 years old).

Results

The 2.8-min scan resulted in a relatively low radiation dose (<3 µSv) while producing artifact clear images in all participants. An 8% scan site was equivalent to 33 ± 2 mm of total tibial length (400 ± 30 mm). We observed active growth plates in 33 participants. The growth plate was located at 13 ± 2 mm of total tibial length and was not included in the ROI for any participant.

Conclusions

HR-pQCT safely assessed important elements of bone microstructure in adolescents. Given the important contribution of bone geometry and structure to bone strength, it is essential to better understand the development and adaptation of these parameters in cortical and trabecular bone compartments.

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Acknowledgements

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the students, staff, and parents in the Vancouver and Richmond School District for their continued support and participation in this study. We acknowledge and are grateful for Dr. MacKelvie-O’Brien’s considerable contribution during the first 2 years of the study. Without the superhuman efforts of Deetria Egeli—who brings these children (and now young adults) back each year—this study would not be possible. Finally, we thank all the staff at the Centre for Hip Health and Mobility for their skill, due diligence, and ongoing support.

Sources of Funding

Canadian Institutes of Health Research; Professor McKay is a Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research senior scholar.

Conflicts of interest

None.

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada

    M. Burrows, D. Liu & H. McKay

  2. Centre for Hip Health and Mobility, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Room 588, 828 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V5Z 1L8

    M. Burrows, D. Liu & H. McKay

  3. Department of Family Practice, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada

    H. McKay

Authors
  1. M. Burrows
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  2. D. Liu
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  3. H. McKay
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to H. McKay.

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Burrows, M., Liu, D. & McKay, H. High-resolution peripheral QCT imaging of bone micro-structure in adolescents. Osteoporos Int 21, 515–520 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00198-009-0913-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00198-009-0913-2

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