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Best Practice Recommendations for DXA Scans and Reports

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New Horizons in Osteoporosis Management

Abstract

Bone mineral density (BMD) testing is a key component in the management of patients with osteoporosis. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) can be used to diagnose osteoporosis, assess fracture risk, and monitor changes in bone mineral density (BMD) over time. Quality control, acquisition, analysis, interpretation, and reporting of DXA studies require training and experience for the DXA technologist and interpreter. Poor quality DXA reports may result in inappropriate patient care decisions that can be costly and sometimes harmful to patients. This chapter will discuss the basic principles of DXA scanning, how to collect local reference data, falls risk, and the role of healthcare professionals (physicians, radiographer, as well as practice and osteoporosis nurse specialist) in the DXA scanning service. It will expand to discuss reporting of DXA scans for both adults and children as well as errors in standard practice. Glossary is included in the chapter including examples of preassessment questionnaires as well as the elements to be considered when reporting DXA scans. The objective is to provide the responsible healthcare professional with sufficient information and guidance so that the most informed management decision can be made.

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  1. Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, Kent, UK

    Yasser El Miedany

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    Yasser El Miedany

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El Miedany, Y. (2022). Best Practice Recommendations for DXA Scans and Reports. In: El Miedany, Y. (eds) New Horizons in Osteoporosis Management. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-87950-1_10

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