Quantitative analysis of bone mineral content by x-ray microtomography

Physiol Meas. 2003 Feb;24(1):165-78. doi: 10.1088/0967-3334/24/1/312.

Abstract

A new non-destructive method based on x-ray microtomography (micro-CT) was developed to measure calcium density in bone. X-ray micro-CT was used as a quantitative approach to acquire and reconstruct virtual cross-sections through the sample. Accurate beam-hardening correction was implemented. Grey values in the virtual cross-sections were calibrated as calcium mineral density in bone. From these cross-sections, three-dimensional models were created. Calcium content was calculated directly from images and expressed as percentage per volume and per weight. Calcium mineral density was studied by this method in a unique set of bones isolated from newts (Pleurodeles waltlii Michah) that had travelled into space. A demineralization of 10% was shown as a consequence of sustained micro-gravity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bone Density
  • Bone and Bones / diagnostic imaging*
  • Calcium / analysis
  • Carbon / analysis
  • Femur / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / methods
  • Mice
  • Oxygen / analysis
  • Phantoms, Imaging
  • Phosphorus / analysis
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Spine / diagnostic imaging
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / instrumentation
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods*

Substances

  • Phosphorus
  • Carbon
  • Oxygen
  • Calcium