Bone Abstracts

Introduction: The quantification of cortical BMD and thickness in QCT images remains challenging due to the limited spatial resolution of CT scanners. We simulated the impact of longitudinal cortical BMD and thickness changes on accuracy of cortical measurements using three different segmentation algorithms.Methods: A step function of varying width d (cortical thickness) and height (cortical BMD) and an additional step representing trabecular BMD was con...

Introduction: QCT of the spine is typically restricted to the BMD analysis of the lumbar vertebrae. However, fractures frequently occur in the thoracolumbar region. Also the load distribution in the spine may depend on the intervertebral disc space (IDS), a good approximation of the intervertebral disc, which itself cannot be reliably assessed by X-ray based methods.Materials and methods: A QCT 3D acquisition and automated analysis technique (with option...

Denosumab subcutaneous administration every 6 months reduced the incidence of new fractures in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis by 68% at the spine and 40% at the hip over 36 months compared with placebo in the FREEDOM study (Cummings et al., NEJM, 2009:361:756). This efficacy was supported by differential improvements from baseline in vertebral and femoral strength at 36 months (18.2 and 8.6%, respectively) estimated by an established voxel-based finit...

Introduction: Gamma type nails are routinely used for the fixation of intertrochanteric fractures of the proximal femur. QCT at the hip is an advanced method that is increasingly being used to estimate BMD and determine the future fracture risk. Yet, implants cause metal artefacts (MA) in CT images, even at the contralateral side due to the high absorption of metal, which may impair BMD accuracy.Methods: Three human cadavers were scanned first without an...