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Tag: hip fracture

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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Osteoporosis Fracture Risk: Tips to Recognize High-Risk Patients

osteoporosis fracture risk

Osteoporosis is characterized by low bone mass and increased risk of fractures. The disease is particularly dangerous because it is often “silent.” There are no signs and symptoms while the bone loss occurs in the background. In fact, the condition is typically diagnosed when a significant medical event such as a fragility fracture occurs. Sometimes, even fractures are not recognized clinically (2 out of 3 vertebral fractures are asymptomatic). X-ray techs and DXA operators are in a unique position to recognize osteoporosis fracture risk.

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