Clinical Use of Bone Densitometry

densitometry devices. Many studies have shown a strong relationship between bone density at virtually any skeletal site and the subsequent risk for fractures of the spine, hip, and forearm.1 The exact strength of this relationship depends on the type of fracture and the skeletal site measured. In most cases, the relationship between bone density and fracture by analogy is as strong or stronger than the relationship between lipid levels and coronary heart disease.2 Almost all of the available data relating bone density to fracture risk has been obtained from elderly, primarily Caucasian women. From these studies it has been determined that direct measurements of the hip are the most sensitive predictors of hip fracture.3 Heel measurements have also been shown to be excellent for predicting hip fracture.4-6 Kenneth G. Faulkner, PhD