To validate a revised version of the KIMRISS method for quantification of BML and synovitis-effusion in the knee by comparison with an established method, MOAKS.
Novel calibration tools were developed for both methods. We compared reliability for status and change scores of BML and synovitis-effusion on baseline and one-year MRI scans.
Significant increase in both BML and synovitis-effusion was evident using KIMRISS but only for synovitis-effusion using MOAKS. Pre-specified targets for acceptable reliability (≥0.80 and ≥0.70 for status and change scores, respectively) were achieved more frequently for KIMRISS for both BML and synovitis.
Per OFISA criteria, KIMRISS should progress to assessment of discrimination.