Objective: To propose an algorithm for using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) on the basis of the authors' findings and the data available in the literature on the estimation of the projectional bone mineral density (PBMD), which can minimize the precision error (PE) to clinically insignificant values while solving the problems of diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic effectiveness monitoring in a specific patient.
Material and methods: The results of the authors' ex vivo studies and literature data on PE during DEXA in a densitometry room were systematized.
Results: The performed analysis allowed the elaboration of a PE minimizing algorithm in the individual control in terms of clinical problems to be solved. The elements of a working place passport system, which allow the head of a radiological service to control the work of a densitometry room and a densitometer operator to make self-control, have been developed.
Conclusion: The elaborated algorithm for using DEXA in a densitometry room to estimate PBMD permits one to minimize PE when solving the problems of diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic effectiveness monitoring in a specific patient in the clinically permissible limits.