New 3D scans in Exeter could catch arthritis early
This trial aims to stop joint damage before it starts
Doctors in Exeter are testing a new type of 3D scan to spot rheumatoid arthritis early and prevent serious joint damage.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease where the immune system attacks healthy parts of the body, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. If left untreated, it can cause permanent damage to joints and even organs.
Early diagnosis is vital, but standard X-rays can miss half of early cases. The University of Exeter is now running a trial to compare these new 3D scans, called Adaptix Ortho350, with traditional X-rays to see if they are better.
Emma Carnell, 45, is the first adult to take part. She shared how the illness started suddenly during a family holiday in Corfu.
“My hand cramped up and felt claw-like one morning. I thought it was just the hotel bed and stretched out in the pool, but the pain came back the next day.
“When I got home, things got worse. I couldn’t drive because I couldn’t turn the key and had to stop decorating my house because I couldn’t pick up a paintbrush.
“I feel lucky because my GP acted quickly and started me on the right treatment. But a longer delay could have caused lasting damage to my joints.”
Emma said the new research is very important. “If these 3D scans can catch arthritis earlier, they’ll save the joints of so many people, helping them live normal lives.”
How do the new scans work?
The new Adaptix Ortho350 scans use a process called Digital Tomosynthesis to create 3D images of bones and joints.
Professor Karen Knapp at the University of Exeter is leading the trial.
She explained: “We are excited to test this new technology because it gives clearer pictures of bones and joints than regular X-rays. This means we could spot early signs of problems that often get missed and start treatment sooner.”
Unlike CT scans, the new scans use less radiation, are quicker to produce, and can be done more easily right next to the patient.
Dr Siân Phillips from Adaptix described how their portable machines are already used for animals and in other industries. She said this is the first time the technology is being tested on human patients.
What happens in the trial?
The trial is focused on adults with suspected rheumatoid arthritis and other types of inflammatory arthritis in their hands.
Each person is scanned using both regular X-rays and the new 3D scans so researchers can directly compare how effective each method is at spotting the disease and tracking its progress.
The trial is supported by local healthcare teams at the Royal Devon University Hospital and the NIHR Exeter Biomedical Research Centre.
Rheumatoid arthritis affects around 18 million people worldwide, and this research offers hope for better ways to diagnose and treat it.