CLINICAL-APPLICATIONS OF 3-DIMENSIONAL MAGNETIC-RESONANCE IMAGE-ANALYSIS

A methodology for measuring the kinematic parameters of joints in vivo has been refined using the technique of computerized three-dimensiona l reconstruction from magnetic resonance images. A research protocol h as been developed to establish a classification of normal and patholog ic foot function that will have broad clinical application. Developmen t of algorithms for a computer-directed program that can predict resul tant kinematics and joint morphometry for a given osteotomy or osseous remodeling procedure will assist the surgeon in preoperative surgical planning.