Micro-computed Tomography Laboratory
Mission
The primary mission of the MicroCT Laboratory is to provide state-of-the-art 3D ex vivo imaging using microCT for both research and teaching. This facility is housed within the School of Veterinary Medicine and includes a state-of-the-art ex vivo desktop cone-beam micro-CT (Scanco Model 40) that is fully shielded. This scanner has a nominal best resolution of 6µm with a real resolution of 9µm and a maximum FOV of 37mm in diameter by 70mm in length.
Services
Services can include ex vivo x-ray microCT scanning of specimens measuring no more than 35mm in diameter and 70mm in length. Software is available to provide 3D reconstructions of scanned objects, and quantify bone architecture and density. The specimens utilized for microCT must have inherent radio opacity (e.g., bone) or can be rendered radio-opaque (e.g., utilizing contrast agents).
Some examples of applications of microCT include evaluation of bone microarchitecture in normal and pathogenic states (e.g. fracture healing, defect healing, in the presence of an implant), and soft tissue with the assistance of contrast agents (e.g., vasculature and cartilage).
Contact
Michelle L. Osborn, PhD
Associate Professor
Comparative Biomedical Sciences
LSU School of Veterinary Medicine
225-578-9470