Weight-Bearing CT Imaging Improves Accuracy of OA Diagnosis Compared to Traditional X-Rays

Weight-bearing radiographs have limitations in terms of their two-dimensional nature and knee positioning, which can result in unreliable X-Ray beam angles. Weight-bearing CT (WBCT) imaging can provide three-dimensional (3D) images of the knee compartment, leading to earlier detection of osteoarthritis (OA) and allowing for additional measurements to aid in a more reliable diagnosis.

OA is the most common form of arthritis, and the knee is the most commonly affected weight-bearing joint. Current practice involves measuring joint space width (JSW) on plain radiographs, but this approach has limitations in terms of optimal knee positioning and unreliable X-Ray beam angle. WBCT imaging, such as CurveBeam AI’s HiRise, provides 3D images that can be obtained in a standardized, reproducible, standing position, thus addressing these limitations.

A recent study found that subregional 3D JSW measurements on WBCT were significantly more responsive to changes in tibiofemoral joint structure than traditional radiographs. This suggests that the use of subregional 3D JSW measurements on WBCT images could help improve the accuracy of diagnosis and lead to better outcomes for patients with OA.

Read the full article on Curvebeam AI’s website: WBCT Better Detects Changes in Knee Joint Space Width than X-Ray in OA Patients – CurveBeam AI