High-resolution MRI and CT images analysis software evaluating 3D bone structure and allowing for accurate assessment of (i) bone strength and health, (ii) risk for osteoporosis development, and (iii) risk for hip fracture.

Osteoporosis affects 50 million Americans and more than 200 million people worldwide. It leads to reduced bone strength and increased risk of fracture. Hip fracture in particular is a devastating event with 50% of sufferers losing ability to walk and 20% of suffers dying from it.

More than 2 million fractures and 300,000 hip fractures occur annually in the U.S. resulting in $20 billion and $12B in annual healthcare expenses, respectively. Currently, greater than 50% of the individuals with osteoporosis are not detected by bone density testing, the standard-of-care diagnostic test. More accurate and earlier diagnosis is needed and could lead to earlier treatment and the prevention of fractures, saving healthcare costs. 

Dr. Rajapakse and Dr. Chang have developed a software applied to high resolution MRI or CT images of bone microstructure for detailed evaluation of the mechanical strength of the bone. It allows for simulation of various loading conditions, takes into account shape, geometry and distribution of the trabecular building blocks during stress to describe mechanical integrity and accurately determines osteoporosis development and hip fracture risk.

• Can be used with images from standard clinical MRI or CT machines
• More accurate prediction of osteoporosis development and hip fracture than DEXA
• Earlier detection and treatment of bone loss, leading to lower healthcare costs
• More accurate monitoring of bone loss and treatment effectiveness
• Early screening for predisposed patients (with osteoporosis, family history, metastatic cancer, diabetes, renal diseases)

• Diagnosis and prognosis of osteoporosis and bone pathologies
• Driver for early treatment for patients with high risk
• Monitoring of disease progression and therapy response