Evaluation of a trabecular structure using a multiresolution analysis

Osteoporosis is serious disease for older people. The early stage of detection of the osteoporosis is important. The BMD (Bone Mineral Density) is usually used in the diagnosis of the osteoporosis but it does not always reflect the strength of the bones. Here, the authors propose a newly developed diagnosis technique of the osteoporosis, which employs a multiresolution analysis of the section images of the bones to evaluate the trabecular structures. To evaluate this technique, the authors applied it to the section images measured by a micro X-ray CT in two groups of rats (normal and osteoporosis). The maximum load to destroy the bones and the BMD were also measured. This technique could classify the two groups successfully and had a relationship with the maximum load more closely than that of the BMD. It seems to be beneficial for detection in early stage disease.