An evaluation method for time dependent regeneration process of articular cartilage using localized MRS

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and MRS (magnetic resonance spectroscopy) are able to analyze a chemical structure of biological tissues. By using those methods, the magnetic moment (Mo), longitudinal relaxation time (T1), horizontal relaxation time (T2), diffusion coefficient D and chemical shift (δ) are measured. These values show the chemical structure, the diffusion coefficient, the perfusion and the water content of the biological tissue. From animal experiments for the regeneration process of the cartilage tissue, values - T1, T2, and D - are shortened depending on the regeneration process. These results suggest some bio-chemical changes depending on the regenerative process. This paper proposes localized MRS measuring technologies for those values acquired only in some small regions. The specified area is arbitrarily assigned in the measurement area. (author)