Early detection of radiographic knee osteoarthritis using computer-aided analysis

Summary Objective To determine whether computer-based analysis can detect features predictive of osteoarthritis (OA) development in radiographically normal knees. Method A systematic computer-aided image analysis method weighted neighbor distances using a compound hierarchy of algorithms representing morphology (WND-CHARM) was used to analyze pairs of weight-bearing knee X-rays. Initial X-rays were all scored as normal Kellgren–Lawrence (KL) grade 0, and on follow-up approximately 20 years later either developed OA (defined as KL grade=2) or remained normal. Results The computer-aided method predicted whether a knee would change from KL grade 0 to grade 3 with 72% accuracy ( P P Conclusion Radiographic features detectable using a computer-aided image analysis method can predict the future development of radiographic knee OA.