Decreasing Radiation Exposure in the Treatment of Pediatric Long Bone Fractures Using a DXA Scan: A Proof of Concept

Background: Fractures are typically evaluated and monitored using plain radiographs, but in the pediatric population goal is always to reduce radiation exposure when possible. Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) an imaging modality that uses less radiation. The evaluation of upper lower extremity fractures DEXA has not yet been studied. Method: Radiographs 19 patients treated for forearm or tibia were compared images taken with a machine. angulation translation measured twice each by two independent observers. Correlation these values between radiographs scans along intra inter-observer reliability was calculated. Results: A total fracture enrolled study. conventional r=0.77, p<0.001, while it r=0.76, p<0.001. mean difference methods 0.5 degrees (range -6.7 7.7) 4% -28% 37%) translation. For inter-rater 0.90 (95% confidence interval 0.84-0.93) 0.89 (0.68-0.95) 0.77 (0.69-0.83) 0.76(0.41-0.88) Conclusion: Our study showed correlates well measuring population. This proof concept DEXA, low-dose alternative may be useful management fractures.