A Review of Equipment Operation and Quality Control in Dual X-Ray Absorptiometry (DXA) Bone Densitometry

George Tsoukatos, BPS, R.T.(R)(ARRT)®

^*Medical Imaging Consultant, Germantown, NY

Address correspondence to: George Tsoukatos, BPS, R.T.(R)(ARRT)^®, Radiology Support Services, PO Box 215, Germantown, NY 12526. Email: radiologytechnique@gmail.com.

Disclosure statement: George Tsoukatos reports having no significant financial or advisory relationships with corporate organizations related to this activity.

  ABSTRACT

Digital radiographic techniques allow clinicians to visualize bone structure. Unfortunately, they do not offer information about bone mineral density (BMD) factors, which can facilitate early diagnosis and treatment of patients with osteoporosis. In contrast, bone densitometry helps to detect bone mineral loss at an early stage, because it provides accurate quantitative measurement of BMD. Dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is generally considered the gold standard in the assessment of patients’ BMD to determine the risk of fracture and to monitor treatment strategies. Recent advances in DXA equipment and technology have improved system accuracy. However, errors can result from a variety of issues ranging from improper equipment installation and maintenance, inadequate education and training in bone densitometry scanning techniques, improper quality assurance/control (QA/QC) procedures and protocols, as well as insufficient knowledge of current clinical guidelines by the scan interpreter. In order to obtain the greatest benefit from this diagnostic modality, QA and QC protocols need to be in place, monitored, and updated based on regulatory and/or manufacturer guidelines. This course will detail the current procedures of QC/QA in bone densitometry DXA scanning and emphasize the strict adherence of DXA operators and scan interpreters to the equipment manufacturers’ recommendations, current clinical guidelines, and regulatory accreditation protocols.