[Evaluation of vertebral fractures with dual energy absorptiometry: is it an alternative to conventional radiography?].
A new technique based on bone densitometry is proposed, as a potential alternative to X rays evaluation of vertebral deformities. Compared to conventional X ray, this technique offers a good specificity ranging from 95 to 99%. The variable sensitivity reported (from 0.53 to 0.92%), due to poor detection of higher thoracic vertebrae, hampers the diagnostic value of the technique. Nevertheless, its good negative predictive value may allow its use as a screening tool in a high risk population. Main progress should be performed on the image definition in order to increase the diagnostic sensitivity of the technique.
Duboeuf
François
F
Unité Inserm 403 Hôpital Edouard Herriot Pav F, Service de rhumatologie 5, place d'Arsonval F-69437 Lyon. duboeuf@lyon.inserm.fr
Chapurlat
Roland
R
Audibert
Olivier Marion
OM
Delmas
Pierre Denis
PD
D015502:Absorptiometry, Photon; D006801:Humans; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*