PET/CT Assessment in an in vivo Canine Model of Osteoarthritis with FDG and Na¹⁸F

Learning Objectives Learning Objectives: The aim of this exhibit is to describe the methodology used on how to serially image a OAI canine model using PET/CT of an anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) using FDG and Na¹⁸F.

Objectives: Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by degradation and loss of articular cartilage, and remodeling of underlying bone. PET FDG reflects glucose metabolism and can detect inflammation. FDG PET can demonstrate the site of synovitis and bone marrow lesions associated with OA. NaF PET allows noninvasive assessment of regional bone formation. The aim of this presentation is to describe how to serially image the knees and body in an in vivo anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) canine model using FDG and Na¹⁸F PET/CT. Methods: Beagles underwent ACLT in one knee via arthroscopy, the contralateral knee served as control. Under general anesthesia, the dogs underwent FDG (before, 3, 6 and 12 weeks after ACLT) and Na¹⁸F PET/CT. The canine was placed in supine position in a custom made table, with the legs extended in a custom made foam support, to mimic the same position that the dog will have in the MRI when placed in the human knee coil (Fig. 1). A survey and an attenuation scan were performed. Followed by FDG or Na¹⁸F injection (3 mCi) in the cephalic vein via intravenous catheter. A knee dynamic scan was performed for 30 minutes (5 min/frame) followed by a 20 min. body scan, 20 min. dynamic knee scan and 20 min. body scan. At the end of the scan a second attenuation scan was performed. The total protocol scan time was 95 min. The PET/CT was performed using a Philips Gemini TF 64 PET-CT system. Results: The methodology followed allowed to serially analyze all the scans in a consistent manner, which allowed us to reproduce each scan. Conclusion: PET/CT Assessment in an in vivo OA Canine Model with FDG and Na¹⁸F allowed us to perform consistent scans. This presentation details how to serially imaging the knees and body in an in vivo anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) canine model using FDG and Na¹⁸F PET/CT.