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Musculoskeletal Radiology

Research group
Active research
Project owner
Institute of Clinical Sciences
Area
Health and medicine
Topic
Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging Orthopaedics Rheumatology and Autoimmunity Sport and Fitness Sciences Cancer and Oncology Geriatrics

Short description

The Musculoskeletal Radiology research group at the University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital is dedicated to advancing the imaging diagnostics of tumors, injuries including sports injuries, inflammation, and infections in the musculoskeletal system. Our multidisciplinary research team collaborates closely with clinicians, technicians, students, and other research disciplines. Want to know more? Please feel free to contact us for more information.

Research Areas of the Musculoskeletal Research Group

Joint Stability – Dynamic Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Traditionally, imaging joint movement and stability with MRI has been challenging due to motion artifacts. However, our research team has developed a new method for dynamic joint assessment using MRI. By collaborating with medical physicists and MRI technicians, we have successfully addressed the limitations posed by motion. This innovation allows us to observe joint movement in MRI, enabling the evaluation of joint stability—an assessment that was previously not possible. Our project aims to determine the diagnostic value of this new technique in injuries.
Responsible for the Study: Pawel Szaro

Dynamic magnetic resonance of the ankle performed at Sahlgrenska University Hospital. This advanced imaging technique allows for the detailed study of movement and stability of the joint structures.

Bone Imaging Without Radiation – Synthetic Computed Tomography (CT)

Historically, bone imaging has primarily relied on CT scans and x-rays. However, our team has introduced technical advancements that allow us to generate images remarkably like CT scans using MRI, without the need for X-ray radiation. This novel approach not only provides a radiation-free alternative for bone imaging but also reduces the need for additional examinations. Our project focuses on comparing CT-like images obtained from MRI with traditional CT scans to assess their diagnostic value.
Responsible for the Study: Katarzyna Bokwa Dabrowska

Coronal magnetic resonance scan of the right shoulder. Although this image resembles a computed tomography scan, it is indeed an magnetic resonance using a technique known as synthetic computed tomography. Conducted at Sahlgrenska University Hospital

Sport Imaging – Reducing Recovery Time for Athletes

Injuries to tendons, muscles, or ligaments often force athletes to pause their training. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for selecting the most effective treatment. Unfortunately, existing diagnostic methods can sometimes lack the specificity needed. Our project aims to develop precise, objective methods for evaluating sports-related injuries to the shoulder, knee, and ankle, with the goal of improving patient outcomes and reducing the time needed for athletes to return to their sport.
Responsible for the Study: Pawel Szaro

Interventions in the Musculoskeletal System

Advanced imaging techniques can play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal tumors, potentially reducing the need for extensive surgical interventions. However, current imaging methods may not always be specific enough, sometimes necessitating a biopsy. Biopsy of a lesion within the musculoskeletal system can be technically challenging and may yield non-diagnostic results. This project aims to explore how imaging studies can enhance biopsy success rates. Additionally, we will evaluate the effectiveness of minimally invasive, image-guided techniques in treating musculoskeletal tumors.
Responsible for the Study: Pawel Szaro, Khaldun Ghali Gataa, Fatih Inci

Improving Diagnostics of Musculoskeletal Tumors

This project seeks to minimize the need for biopsies in the evaluation of soft tissue tumors by utilizing advanced MRI techniques. Recent innovations in MRI can differentiate tumor types by analyzing water movement within tissues and detecting specific tumor biomarkers. While these techniques have shown promise in accurately characterizing tumors in the brain and liver, their application in soft tissue tumor assessment is not yet widespread due to a lack of comprehensive scientific studies. Our goal is to evaluate the potential of these new techniques in diagnosing musculoskeletal tumors.
Responsible for the Study: Pawel Szaro, Katarzyna Bokwa Dabrowska

MRI using a specialized technique that visualizes the direction of water diffusion in nerves. The image depicts the brachial plexus nerves in a patient with a tumor in the plexus area. This non-invasive technique enhances the diagnosis of nerve tumors.

Artificial Intelligence in Radiology

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine is rapidly expanding. In radiology, AI has the potential to facilitate quicker and more accurate fracture detection. This project will assess the impact of AI on the accuracy and efficiency of fracture diagnosis.
Responsible for the Study: Pawel Szaro, Nektarios Solidakis

A soccer player after an injury to the foot. An X-ray examination reveals a non-displaced fracture. Thanks to artificial intelligence, the accuracy of the diagnosis is improved, with the fracture highlighted in a box.

Photon Counting Computed Tomography – a new computed tomography

Photon counting is a new method in computed tomography that offers increased spatial resolution, enabling the visualization of smaller structures and detailed bone microarchitecture. This advancement allows for better detection of small fractures that may be missed by conventional CT scans. Additionally, photon counting technology aids in evaluating osseointegration—the critical bond between bone and load-bearing implants used in orthopedic joint replacements. If osseointegration fails, the implant may loosen, causing significant pain and often requiring surgical intervention. This project aims to assess the value of photon counting technology in evaluating the osseointegration of ankle prostheses.
Responsible for the Study: Pawel Szaro, Nektarios Solidakis

Geriatric Imaging, Osteoporosis, and Imaging in Rheumatology

This project focus on arthritis imaging techniques, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up, osteoporosis imaging and evaluation, and Imaging and characterization of rare neuromuscular diseases.
Responsible for the Study: Mats Geijer

Our researchers

Our research group consists of radiology specialists, radiology residents, technicians, radiographers, and students. Our team members actively supervise PhD candidates and undergraduate thesis projects. 

Are you interested in our projects or in collaborating with us? Please feel free to contact us! We welcome everyone to join our research group!

Associate professors:

Pawel Szaro, MD, PhD, consultant radiologist
Hanna Hebelka Bolminger, MD, PhD, Consultant Pediatric Radiologist
Ylva Aurell, MD, PhD, consultant radiologist (retired)

Professor emeritus:

Mats Geijer, MD, PhD, consultant radiologist

PhD-students:

Khaldun Ghali Gataa
Nektarios Solidakis
Erini Polymeri

Researchers:

Katarzyna Bokwa Dabrowska, PhD, MD, Postdoc, consultant radiologist
Fatih Inci, MD, PhD, consultant radiologist
Alex Alexiev, MD, radiology resident
Isa Sasic, MD, radiology resident
Isaac Romanus, MD
Michel Huuskonen, MD

Students involved in our projects:
Gustav Lodeiro
Ivan Sundeman Lytsy
Johan Rindner
André Ragnevad
Muhammad Kader

Publications

The research group has national and international collaborations. Among the publications from the group peer-reviewed scientific papers as well as educational materials in the form of books, electronic materials and articles. (see list of publications below)

Publikationer
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