Ultrasound backscattering outperforms the clinically used ultrasound parameters in discrimination of osteoporotic-like human trabecular bone samples

Abstract

New quantitative ultrasound techniques have been introduced for the assessment of bone quality. The aim of this study was to investigate the sensitivity of current clinically used ultrasound parameters and novel backscatter parameters on discrimination of osteoporotic-like human trabecular bone samples from normal samples. Moreover, the effect of ultrasound (US) frequency on measured parameters was investigated. In this study, 16 human trabecular samples were measured in transmission and pulse-echo geometry in vitro. Moreover, structural characteristics (microCT measurements) and mechanical properties (destructive compressive testing) were determined. The samples were divided into two groups (osteoporotic-like, normal) based on the porosity of the samples. Mechanical properties between selected groups differed significantly (p<0.001). At all US frequencies, broadband ultrasound backscattering discriminated osteoporotic-like and normal group (p < 0.005). On the other hand, nBUA failed to separate osteoporotic-like and normal sample groups at high US frequencies. Ultrasound backscattering measurements are, at least in theory, possible to conduct from typical osteoporotic sites. This feature further enhances the clinical potential of backscattering parameters in the future. © 2009 Springer-Verlag.