DXA is the most commonly used machine for BMD measurement. It is more common than other modalities such as QCT in osteoporotic patients. X-ray techs need at least a basic knowledge of DXA results interpretation. DXA results are expressed by two numbers known as T-score and Z-score.
The importance of DXA is underscored by the fact that BMD is a strong independent predictor of an individual’s risk of sustaining fragility fractures. A clear relationship has been established in postmenopausal females between BMD results and the risk of osteoporotic fractures. For every standard deviation drop in DXA-calculated bone density (equivalent to a 10-12 percent bone loss in the spine), the individual’s fracture risk increases by up to 2.5 times. What are the advantages of DXA scan and how does it compare to other modalities used to measure bone density?
Given the risks of exposure to ionizing radiation, a number of laws, government regulatory authorities, and advisory agencies work to ensure the safe use of X-rays in medical imaging. Read about some healthcare laws that may be of interest to radiologic technologists.
Healthcare professionals should assess all women above the age of 65 for the presence of risk factors that predispose to bone loss and fragility fractures. What are the BMD testing recommendations in older individuals? What tools available to assess risk? How often should DXA scans be done in the elderly? At what site should BMD testing be performed? And how should the results be interpreted?