Quantitative MR imaging in fracture dating—Initial results

摘要: For exact age determinations of bone fractures in a forensic context (e.g. cases child abuse) improved knowledge the time course healing process and use non-invasive modern imaging technology is high importance. To date, fracture dating based on radiographic methods by determining callus status thereby relying an expert's experience. As novel approach, this study aims to investigate applicability magnetic resonance (MRI) for systematically investigating time-resolved changes quantitative MR characteristics after event. Prior children, adults were examined order test methodology application. Altogether, 31 examinations 17 subjects (♀: 11 ♂: 6; median 34 ± 15 y, scanned 1-5 times over period up 200 days event) performed clinical 3T scanner (TimTrio, Siemens AG, Germany). All treated conservatively either long or collar bone. Both, qualitative measurements all subjects. sequences measurement relaxation T1 T2 gap musculature applied. Maps parameters T1, T2, magnetisation transfer ratio (MTR) calculated evaluated fractured area defined ROIs. Additionally, muscle areas as reference regions validate approach. Quantitative evaluation 23 data sets (12 subjects, ♀: 7 5) showed initial peak values (T1=1895 607 ms), which decreased value 1094 182 ms (200 event). also peaked early-stage (T2=115 80 ms) 73 33 within 21 After that point, no significant could be detected T2. MTR remained constant at 35.5 8.0% time. The shows assessment behaviour region enable generation model allowing objective determination fracture.