In lumbar spondylosis with myelopathy, which imaging modality is used for bone density assessment?

In lumbar spondylosis with myelopathy, which imaging modality is used for bone density assessment?

• A. MRI
• B. DEXA scan
• C. CT scan
• D. Ultrasound

Answer: (B)

Bone density testing is done with a DEXA scan because it directly measures bone mineral density, which is crucial for assessing fracture risk and guiding management in lumbar spine problems with myelopathy. A DEXA uses low-dose X-rays at two energies to estimate bone density, usually at the lumbar spine and hip, and reports a T-score (comparison to young healthy adults) and a Z-score (age-matched comparison). This information helps decide on osteoporosis treatment, optimize bone health before or after surgery, and anticipate instrumentation-related risks. Other imaging modalities have important roles—MRI is best for evaluating spinal cord compression and soft tissues, CT provides detailed bone anatomy and degenerative changes, and ultrasound does not assess bone density. But for measuring bone density itself, the standard is the DEXA scan.

Bone density testing is done with a DEXA scan because it directly measures bone mineral density, which is crucial for assessing fracture risk and guiding management in lumbar spine problems with myelopathy. A DEXA uses low-dose X-rays at two energies to estimate bone density, usually at the lumbar spine and hip, and reports a T-score (comparison to young healthy adults) and a Z-score (age-matched comparison). This information helps decide on osteoporosis treatment, optimize bone health before or after surgery, and anticipate instrumentation-related risks.

Other imaging modalities have important roles—MRI is best for evaluating spinal cord compression and soft tissues, CT provides detailed bone anatomy and degenerative changes, and ultrasound does not assess bone density. But for measuring bone density itself, the standard is the DEXA scan.