Image Segmentation
Automated Segmentation
Semi-Automated Segmentation
Semi-Automated Segmentation
Offering fast processing and turnaround times at a lower cost, automated segmentation offers the highest repeatability with slightly reduced accuracy compared to manual segmentation (>95% agreement). This is ideal for medium to large datasets focused on predictable or easily discernible anatomy. Our models are always further trained with a subset of your own images to ensure optimal results.
Semi-Automated Segmentation
Semi-Automated Segmentation
Semi-Automated Segmentation
Combining the precision of manual segmentation and the speed of automated segmentation, at a small premium to the automated option, semi-automated segmentation is ideal for anatomy with some inconsistent shapes or features that aren't easily discernible from their surroundings. Automated tools are used where appropriate and manual segmentation ensures the more challenging anatomy is appropriately represented.
Manual Segmentation
Semi-Automated Segmentation
Manual Segmentation
For the highest level of precision, we offer manual segmentation for intricate anatomical features or small sample sizes to provide the best representation of the effect when the dataset is limited. Manual segmentation is ideal for pilot datasets, unique anatomy, or larger datasets where data quality has no room for error. Given the time commitment and quality assurance, manual segmentation comes with the highest fee.
Image Processing
Quantitative & Morphological
Quantitative & Morphological
Quantitative & Morphological
Once segmentation is complete, extracting meaningful insights from your images is our top priority. Using advanced thresholding, registration, and noise-reduction techniques, we ensure your data is optimized for precise quantitative and morphological analysis, delivering actionable results.
Anatomical Measures
Quantitative & Morphological
Quantitative & Morphological
From alignment to rotation, our custom solutions deliver precise anatomical measurements tailored to your study's needs. Whether in 2D or 3D, we accurately quantify offsets, angles, and dimensions to ensure consistency and reliability across your dataset.
Machine Learning Analysis
Quantitative & Morphological
Diffusion-Weighted Imaging
Unlock the full potential of your imaging data with cutting-edge machine learning techniques. Our deep learning models and neural networks reveal hidden patterns, recognize features, and evaluate outcomes beyond traditional analysis, providing a fresh perspective for your research.
Diffusion-Weighted Imaging
Dynamic & Functional Imaging
Diffusion-Weighted Imaging
Explore microstructural tissue characteristics through diffusion-weighted imaging. Our expertise ensures precise processing and analysis of DWI data, enabling studies of tissue integrity, fiber tracking, and advanced connectivity mapping for musculoskeletal applications.
Statistical Shape Modeling
Dynamic & Functional Imaging
Dynamic & Functional Imaging
Shape matters. Whether analyzing subtle changes over time or comparing groups, our statistical shape modeling services use state-of-the-art software and proprietary enhancements to quantify and visualize shape differences with unparalleled precision.
Dynamic & Functional Imaging
Dynamic & Functional Imaging
Dynamic & Functional Imaging
Add a new dimension to your imaging with dynamic and functional analysis. We specialize in processing motion- and time-based imaging data, including dynamic contrast enhancement and kinematic studies from fluoroscopy or ultrasound, helping you capture the bigger picture.
Data Analysis
Leave no stone unturned
With our publication history in imaging and clinical research, we have experience with a multitude of statistical tests and data analysis approaches. Our training backgrounds include traditional and data science approaches including machine learning (supervised, unsupervised, and deep learning models, simulation modeling), advanced statistical analyses (hypothesis testing, regression modeling, and survival analyses), big data (multimodal, longitudinal analyses), as well as quality control and validation studies. You can find out more about each of these approaches below.
Data Science and Machine Learning Approaches
Our expertise in data science and machine learning allows us to extract meaningful insights from complex imaging datasets. We utilize supervised learning techniques like random forests and support vector machines to predict clinical outcomes from imaging features, or vice-versa.
Unsupervised methods, like k-means clustering or PCA, help identify patterns in large datasets, such as categorizing joint conditions, or phenotyping disease presentations based on imaging and clinical features.
Deep learning models, such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs), are used for feature and pattern recognition to identify complex interactions between variables, uncovering important relationships that are unlikely to be discovered with traditional approaches.
Simulation modeling serves as a powerful tool to maximize pilot data, or to evaluate the likelihood of potential outcomes with changing variables.
These approaches are becoming increasingly common with large datasets and registries, given their enhanced capacity to account for a number of variables and interactions to provide a clearer representation and realistic model of disease behaviours, making sense of the unclear relationship between imaging features and clinical presentation.
Advanced Statistical Analyses
While data science and traditional analyses have many similarities, not every research question lends itself to assuming high levels of complexity. For more of a hypothesis-driven approach, we offer advanced statistical techniques to answer complex research questions.
Hypothesis testing, such as ANOVA or t-tests, is used to compare between groups and timepoints (or both). For example, evaluating differences in tissue properties between treatment groups or conditions, while also accounting for natural history and regression towards the mean.
Regression models, including linear and mixed-effects models, help quantify relationships between imaging biomarkers and clinical outcomes, allowing for the ability to adjust for variables that may impact the relationship of interest, such as changes in pain or mobility scores using varying levels of supportive bracing, while adjusting for the levels of baseline pain scores.
For longitudinal studies, survival analysis techniques like Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression models allow us to evaluate the progression of musculoskeletal diseases and the effectiveness of interventions over time. Combining these longitudinal approaches with other methods described allows for understanding of which factors are associated with failure of an intervention, or survival of a joint after surgery.
These analyses are typically expected for clinical trials or interventional studies. We ensure that your data is interpreted with rigor and precision, leading to impactful findings.
Big Data
If you're fortunate to have a large, complex dataset that covers many domains in addition to imaging, we are skilled at handling and analyzing these multimodal datasets, integrating imaging data with clinical, genomic, or biomechanical information in order to answer complex questions.
Our expertise in longitudinal analyses enables us to track changes in tissue properties or disease progression over time, providing valuable insights for long-term studies. For example, we can analyze MRI datasets from thousands of patients to identify predictors of osteoarthritis progression or treatment response, and establish relationships between measures of imaging progression, symptoms, genomics, or functional outcome measures, as well as indentifying co-dependent relationships and mediation analyses.
By leveraging high-performance computing and scalable workflows, we ensure that even the largest datasets are processed efficiently and effectively to make the most of the dataset.
Quality Control and Validation Studies
Ensuring the reliability and accuracy of imaging analyses is a cornerstone of our work. We conduct thorough quality control by evaluating reproducibility, interobserver variability, and measurement consistency across datasets. We can do this internally, or train a member of your team to complete comparative postprocessing for your peace of mind.
Validation studies, such as comparing automated segmentation results with expert manual annotations, help refine our workflows and establish trust in our methods. For instance, we have validated algorithms for knee cartilage segmentation by benchmarking them against gold-standard manual methods, ensuring robust and accurate results for your projects.
If you have a new image processing or acquisition method that you'd like to validate or investigate further, we can help with the design and workflow to achieve the most reliable outcomes.
Imaging Protocol Optimization
Get the most out of imaging acquisition
Optimizing imaging protocols requires a deep understanding of both the technical capabilities of imaging modalities and the specific research or clinical goals. At MSK ImageWorks, we collaborate closely with clients to design protocols that balance cost-effectiveness, acquisition quality, and time efficiency. Whether you’re working with MRI, ultrasound, CT, or other imaging modalities, we can help decide on the ideal modality, and tailor acquisition parameters to ensure that the images align perfectly with your study objectives. Imaging parameters can vary widely, and many imaging suites are more experienced with internal organ and brain imaging, often overlooking nuances and opportunities specific to MSK.
We also ensure that protocols meet regulatory standards and dosing guidelines where applicable, and and are reproducible across different imaging sites or devices in the case of multicenter studies. By prioritizing precision and practicality, we enable you to maximize the impact of your imaging budget and achieve reliable, high-quality results that offer the best chance to test your hypothesis.
Study Design
Set your team up for success and discovery
Designing a study that incorporates imaging measures is a multifaceted process requiring meticulous attention to detail and an understanding of both technical and logistical challenges. At MSK ImageWorks, we provide expert guidance to help you navigate these complexities, tailoring each aspect of the study to meet your specific research or clinical objectives. Key components of our approach include:
Imaging Modality Selection
The choice of imaging modality is crucial to obtaining reliable and interpretable data. We ensure that the selected modality is not only capable of answering your research question but also compatible with your available resources, ensuring efficiency and practicality without compromising scientific rigor.
Outcome Measures
Defining appropriate imaging-derived outcomes is essential for generating actionable insights. We work with you to identify biomarkers and endpoints that maximize the interpretability and impact of your results, aligning with the goals of your study and the expectations of stakeholders.
Protocol Development
Imaging protocols must be carefully designed to ensure consistency, reproducibility, and clarity in the data acquired. Our team focuses on optimizing image quality and standardizing acquisition methods to deliver reliable data across all study sites and timepoints.
Timepoint Optimization
Strategic planning of data collection timepoints enhances the ability to detect meaningful changes while maintaining a balance between participant retention and logistical feasibility. This ensures that your study is efficient and achieves its objectives within the constraints of your timeline and budget.
Feasibility & Logistics
Effective study design considers all operational aspects, such as imaging suite availability, staffing, participant burden, and clinician experience. We integrate logistical considerations into every recommendation to ensure the smooth execution of your study and the reliability of your results.
Resource Allocation
Managing costs without sacrificing quality is vital to the success of any study. We provide strategies for allocating resources effectively, focusing on high-impact elements while maintaining a cost-effective approach.
Our comprehensive study design services are rooted in an understanding of the challenges faced by both academic and industry researchers. With MSK ImageWorks as your partner, you can confidently navigate the complexities of imaging-based research, ensuring that every aspect of your study is designed to make the most of your budget, with a sustainable workflow for your team, delivering impactful and reliable results.
Academic Writing
Let your work do the talking, we'll handle the writing
At MSK ImageWorks, we understand that publishing your work in high-impact journals requires more than just strong data—it requires clear, compelling, and scientifically rigorous communication. With extensive experience in academic publishing and peer review, we know what editors, reviewers, and readers are looking for in a manuscript. Our writing services are designed to elevate your research by presenting your findings in a way that not only meets the standards of your target journal but also captures the attention of your field and potential funding agencies.
Our academic writing services go beyond summarizing results. We craft manuscripts that articulate the significance of your study, provide a clear and logical explanation of your methodology, and contextualize your findings within the broader field. Whether you need assistance with drafting, revising, or polishing your manuscript, we tailor our approach to align with your goals and the expectations of your audience.
In addition to manuscripts, we offer support for grant writing, conference abstracts, and research summaries. These materials play a critical role in securing funding, building collaborations, and advancing your professional reputation. With a focus on precision and clarity, we ensure that the output represents the quality of your work, giving your research the platform it deserves.
Industry Communication
Get an edge on the competition
Effective communication is essential for industry partners looking to translate complex imaging data into actionable insights and strategic decisions. At MSK ImageWorks, we specialize in creating polished, professional communication materials that enable you to focus on securing contracts, expanding your market share, and fostering new partnerships.
Our industry communication services include tailored writing, executive data summaries, and impactful presentations designed to resonate with diverse stakeholders. Whether you need concise summaries for leadership teams, detailed technical documents for regulatory compliance, or compelling visuals for client presentations, we ensure your messaging is clear, precise, and aligned with your strategic goals.
We also offer support for marketing and promotional materials, helping you showcase your products or services effectively to clients and collaborators. With a focus on professionalism and clarity, MSK ImageWorks provides the communication tools you need to drive engagement, build credibility, and advance your position as a leader in the musculoskeletal and orthopedic imaging space.