Category: Rad Tech Talk

Radiologic Technologist Blog

Fracture Risk Assessment Tool: An Overview for X-ray Techs

fracture risk assessment tool BMD

The gold standard in diagnostic testing for osteoporosis and fracture risk is bone mineral density (BMD) measurement. However, it is neither cost-effective nor practical to perform BMD testing in every individual and use this as a fracture risk assessment tool. The majority of people are not at risk of bone disease. Thus, BMD testing is recommended only in populations that are known to be at high risk, such as women over the age of 65. What are some of the other fracture risk assessment tools available to healthcare providers?

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Types of Radiation: Why Are X-Rays Used in Medical Imaging?

Radiation is the transmission of energy through space. There is typically a source of the radiation, a radiation beam, and some material which absorbs the radiation. In diagnostic radiography, the X-ray device is the source of radiation and it emits a radiation beam that is absorbed by the patient. What are the different types of radiation? And why are X-rays preferred for use in medical imaging? 

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Magnitude of Bone Health Issues in America

magnitude of bone health issues hip fracture

Bone health in America is a challenge because of the magnitude of issues related to this aspect of healthcare. In fact, the status of bone health in the country is in grave danger. Fractures due to unhealthy, diseased bones are common. An estimated 1.5 million fractures related to bone disease occur each year. These not only affect the quality of life of the individuals who suffer them but also place a considerable financial burden on the country’s healthcare system.

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