Options and limitations of joint cartilage imaging: DEI in comparison to MRI and sonography

Diffraction Enhanced Imaging (DEI) is an X-ray imaging method to provide additional contrast and diminish untoward image signals by reducing scattering. Previous reports demonstrated its applicability in soft and hard tissue imaging. Here we provide further evidence for the improved overall image quality and for the option to discriminate various tissue-specific properties, such as collagen fiber elements or mineralization. Comparative ex vivo data to medical MRI and to medical ultrasound are shown, utilizing human ankle and hip specimens.