Bone Densitometry Basics is the perfect resource for both technologists that are new to the field and those looking to refine their fundamentals. Modules on osteology, pathology, equipment, and safety cover the basics. The course provides tools to achieve consistently excellent results with guides on FRAX and VFA, step-by-step modules explaining every type of DXA scan, precision studies, serial scanning, and QC.
This series satisfies the ARRT 16-credit Structured Education Requirements for Bone Densitometry.
Format: online modules.
This module starts with an introduction to bone densitometry modalities and technologies, as well as risk factors for bone density disorders. You will also learn about the laws regulating bone densitometry, the importance of quality control, and the different applications of DXA scanning.
This module identifies and explains how to use the planes of reference and directional references of the human body. You will also learn about common features and structures of bones, the types of joints in the body, and the composition and anatomy of bone tissue. Stages of bone growth, the process of bone repair, and the aging process also are discussed.
This module defines key terms for the study of bone pathology and osteoporosis and risk factors for osteoporosis. You will also learn about basic statistical concepts, scores used to diagnose osteoporosis, and the lab tests and biochemical markers used to identify bone pathology. Common diseases that affect bone health also are discussed.
This module describes lifestyle factors that affect bone mineral density and the medications available for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. You will also learn about the advantages and disadvantages of specific treatment options, and the dosing options available for current osteoporosis medications.
This module explains the principles behind dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, the DXA equipment available from different manufacturers, and the beam configurations they use. You will also learn about the characteristics of K-edge filtering and energy-switching systems, and the calibration and maintenance of DXA machines.
This module explains the patient preparations for DXA scanning, as well as contraindications and documentation for the procedure. You will also learn about radiation dose and safe practices for DXA scans.
This module describes osteoporosis in pediatric patients, indications for DXA scanning in pediatrics, and disease processes that affect pediatric bone health. Items that should be included in pediatric scan reports are discussed, as well as correct terminology for reporting and common problems that affect pediatric DXA scans.
This module describes the fracture risk assessment, or FRAX, tool, its history and development, and its applications as a diagnostic tool. FRAX risk factors, its operation, and its limitations also are discussed.
This module describes the vertebral fracture assessment, or VFA, tool. The indications, advantages, and disadvantages of VFA are also described. You will learn about the methods used to assess vertebral fractures, methods for reporting VFA results, and common problems that affect the analysis of a VFA exam.
This module identifies lumbar vertebral anatomy and its common variations. You will also learn about bony landmarks and regions of interest for DXA scanning, and the scan parameters for standard and modified techniques. Patient positioning, DXA result analysis, and common errors also are discussed.
This module identifies proximal femur and hip anatomy. The methods of femur scan acquisition and DXA scan evaluation also are discussed. You will also learn how to modify your technique to overcome common problems and challenges related to DXA scanning of the proximal femur.
This module identifies the anatomy of bones in the hand and forearm, and describes bone densitometry principles and techniques related to scanning them. Step-by-step scanning of the forearm is explained, as well as DXA scan analysis and reporting methods. You will also learn to identify and solve common problems related to forearm DXA scanning.
This module identifies the indications for DXA total body composition scanning, and the elements of body and tissue composition. The applications and limitations of body composition exams are discussed, as well as methods of patient preparation and how to interpret the scan results.
This module compares and contrasts the DXA machines of various manufacturers. Accuracy, precision, and trueness are defined, as well as statistical methods for calculating machine and technologist precision. The module also discusses calibration and cross-calibration techniques, the importance of serial scanning for diagnosis and treatment evaluation, and the importance of quality control and quality assurance programs. Maintenance requirements for DXA machines also are described.
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Written by technologists with decades of experience in the field, Bone Densitometry Basics is the perfect resource for both technologists that are new to the field, and those looking to refine their fundamentals. Osteology, pathology, equipment, and safety modules cover the basics. The following modules expand on that with guides on FRAX and VFA, along with step-by-step modules explaining every type of DXA scan. The last module, on precision studies, serial scanning, and QC, gives technologists the tools they need to achieve consistently excellent results.
This product is licensed for educational and institutional use. It contains all 14 modules, an image library, transcripts, and test banks for each module. Not for CE credit. For unlimited institutional use.
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