Operator-Related Errors and Pitfalls in Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry: How to Recognize and Avoid Them

Abstract

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is the most common modality for quantitative measurements of bone mineral density. Nevertheless, errors related to this exam are still very common, and may significantly impact on the final diagnosis and therapy. Operator-related errors may occur during each DXA step and can be related to wrong patient positioning, error in the acquisition process or in the scan analysis. The aim of this review is to provide a practical guide on how to recognize such errors in spine and hip DXA scan and how to avoid them, also presenting some of the most common artifacts encountered in clinical practice.

Keywords: BMD; Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry; artifacts; errors; pitfalls; quality.