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Open Access 24-01-2024 | Original Article

3D visualization of the human anterior cruciate ligament combining micro-CT and histological analysis

Authors: Annapaola Parrilli, Alberto Grassi, Federica Orellana, Roberta Lolli, Gregorio Marchiori, Matteo Berni, Milena Fini, Nicola Francesco Lopomo, Stefano Zaffagnini

Published in: Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy | Issue 2/2024

Abstract

Purpose

The study aimed to obtain a comprehensive 3D visualization of knee specimens, including the cruciate ligaments and corresponding femoral and tibial bone insertions using a non-destructive micro-CT method.

Methods

Knee specimens were fixed in anatomical positions and chemically dehydrated before being scanned using micro-CT with a voxel size of 17.5 μm. RGBA (red, green, blue, alpha) transfer functions were applied to virtually colorize each structure. Following micro-CT scanning, the samples were rehydrated, decalcified, and trimmed based on micro-CT 3D reconstructions as references. Histological evaluations were performed on the trimmed samples. Histological and micro-CT images were registered to morphologically and densitometrically assess the 4-layer insertion of the ACL into the bone.

Results

The output of the micro-CT images of the knee in extension and flexion allowed a clear differentiation of the morphologies of both soft and hard tissues, such as the ACL, femoral and tibial bones, and cartilage, and the subsequent creation of 3D composite models useful for accurately tracing the entire morphology of the ligament, including its fiber and bundle components, the trajectory between the femur and tibia, and the size, extension, and morphology of its insertions into the bones.

Conclusion

The implementation of the non-destructive micro-CT method allowed complete visualization of all the different components of the knee specimens. This allowed correlative imaging by micro-CT and histology, accurate planning of histological sections, and virtual anatomical and microstructural analysis. The micro-CT approach provided an unprecedented 3D level of detail, offering a viable means to study ACL anatomy.

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Title: 3D visualization of the human anterior cruciate ligament combining micro-CT and histological analysis
Authors: Annapaola Parrilli
Alberto Grassi
Federica Orellana
Roberta Lolli
Gregorio Marchiori
Matteo Berni
Milena Fini
Nicola Francesco Lopomo
Stefano Zaffagnini
Publication date: 24-01-2024
Publisher: Springer Paris
Published in: Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy / Issue 2/2024
Print ISSN: 0930-1038
Electronic ISSN: 1279-8517
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00276-023-03295-5

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Springer Medicine

3D visualization of the human anterior cruciate ligament combining micro-CT and histological analysis

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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