Image processing of x-ray images of empty and filled bone cavity by calcium phosphate granules using ImageJ

Abstract

Some traumatic situations, disease congenial or cancer can lead to bone loss which requires the use of graft bone or implants. Bone substitutes prepared from calcium phosphates such as hydroxyapatite (Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2) or Beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-Ca3(PO4)2) are frequently used in orthopedic and dental surgery for their good biocompatibility and excellent bioactivity. These biomaterials are used with high crystalline structure in different forms: paste, granule or block and their biological integration is influenced by structure and microstructure as well as the architecture, porosity, location and bone/implant connectivity. The aim of this study is analyzing and processing X-Ray images of an empty bone cavity which filled by calcium phosphate nano-biocomposite granules with low crystalline structure. To realize this work, an open defect in dead bovine bone is induced and the samples with and without granules were analyzed by an X-ray medical scanner. The images have been analyzed using the ImageJ as an easy and free imaging technique. We have determined the volume of the defect, segmented the granules in the defect, calculate their size distribution and the volume of created porosity.