Imaging Protocols | Nano CT Advanced Imaging Core

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Imaging Protocols

The core has developed numerous scanning and analysis protocols for multiple specimen types, including bone, soft tissue (such as muscle and cartilage), and non-biological materials. It provides comprehensive support for scans, image analysis, and protocol development through Andrea Clark, [email protected]. 

Interested researchers who would like to initiate new projects involving nano- or micro-CT imaging, assistance is available through Dr. Karl Jepsen, [email protected].

nanotom M

The GE Phoenix Nanotom M is an ex vivo nanofocus computed tomography system. The maximum specimen size is 250 mm in height and 250 mm in diameter. Two targets and a wide selection of filters are available to enhance the quality of the scan and reconstruction. The protocols listed below were originally designed for the GE nanotom S system and are being updated for the nanotom M; if you have a different nanoCT (or microCT) system you will need to adjust the protocol.

Mouse protocols:

Human protocols:

 Analysis

Standard morphological analyses of cortical and trabecular bone are available. These include measurements such as total volume, bone volume, trabecular thickness, trabecular separation, number of trabeculae, structural model index, cortical thickness, cortical inner and outer perimeter, marrow area, and many others. Standards are used to calibrate the CT reconstruction attenuation values to density (Hounsfield Units), thus allowing for bone mineral density measurements as well.