Reconstruction of the articular facets of the subtalar and talonavicular joints from volumetric magnetic resonance data

Abstract

Image processing methods have been used to visualize the articular surfaces of an intact foot from an MR scan and to allow the relationship between the joint surfaces to be studied. The MR protocol employed would be applicable in the living foot. Several standard image-processing methods have been used to develop protocols for manual and automated editing of a volumetric MR scan. The result is a volume-rendered foot, displaying the articular surfaces of the tarsal and metatarsal joints. The methods employed are discussed and reconstructions of the subtalar and talonavicular joints presented, thereby enabling a qualitative analysis of the facets on the talus, calcaneus and navicular.