Technology & Expertise

The ability to quantify features from medical images and accurately assess changes in these features in response to therapy has emerged as a standard end-point in clinical studies of treatments for osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.  Where required, MMI provides precise, quantitative methods to objectively document the effect of the treatment.  We offer a variety of validated tools and techniques to facilitate these evaluations.

The ability to quantify features from medical images and accurately assess changes in these features in response to therapy has emerged as a standard end-point in clinical studies of treatments for osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.  Where required, MMI provides precise, quantitative methods to objectively document the effect of the treatment.  We offer a variety of validated tools and techniques to facilitate these evaluations.

Quantitative Motion Analysis (QMA®)

QMA® is an effective alternative to manual measurement techniques that are prone to poor accuracy and reproducibility.  QMA® produces accurate, quantitative measurements of treatment effect in a manner that is less prone to measurement variability.   Additionally, QMA® offers unique visualization features that have been shown to improve the reliability of common radiographic assessments. QMA® is used to produce the following output:

  • Joint space width 
  • Joint alignment 
  • Detection and measurement migration, subsidence, and rotation of implants
  • Visualization and measurement of progressive lucencies at the bone/implant interface
  • Detection of fracture instability and degree of healing

Quantitative Computed Tomography (qCT) 

Our scientific staff has extensive experience with the development and application of quantitative measurements from computer tomography (CT) exams including:

  • Quantitative assessment of bone density using specialized imaging phantoms
  • Volumetric analysis of fusion mass and the extent of new bone formation
  • Objective structural assessment of fusion mass
  • Fracture risk prediction
  • Advanced image registration to facilitate visualization and quantification of treatment effects 

Quantitative MRI

We have extensive experience with quantitative MRI methods to evaluate the change in quality and quantity of cartilage and surrounding bone. These techniques are designed to assess the response to treatments intended to regenerate and/or restore the “health” of articular cartilage. The following evaluations are supported: 

  • Cartilage and lesion depth, diameter, area, and volume 
  • Cartilaginous and denuded subchondral bone area
  • T1ρ relaxation mapping and assessment of macromolecular content (proteoglycan and GAG) 
  • T2 relaxation mapping and assessment of cartilage hydration 
  • Advanced image registration to facilitate visualization and quantification of treatment effects