Understanding Bone and cartilage interactions (PET/MRI) mediated by movement patterns (Biomechanics), in isolated Patellofemoral Osteoarthritis (PFJ-OA) 

Isolated radiographic PFJ-OA is a more common occurrence than isolated tibiofemoral joint (TFJ)-OA, and several studies have reported mixed-OA to likely start as symptomatic isolated PFJ-OA. Interestingly, depending on variations of risk factors, occurrences of PFJ cartilage damage can remain stable as well as isolated, and might not propagate to the other compartments in some instances. Therefore, a better understanding of the intricate processes in isolated PFJ-OA leading to treatment and prevention strategies specifically targeting the PFJ is warranted. Loading is invariably an important factor of consideration for understanding the causality flow and parallel existence of articular cartilage and subchondral bone changes. The goal of this study was to investigate the patterns of subregional 18NaF-SUV (PET) vs. T1p-T2 (MRI) associations and the possibilities of mediation by vertical ground reaction force loading rates; in isolated PFJ-OA patients.