Simple Hand X-Rays Can Predict Hip Fractures at Same Time as Mammography Screening

By MedImaging International staff writers
Posted on 03 Dec 2012

A new X-ray system provides an effective and inexpensive technique for early identification of individuals at risk for osteoporosis.

Researchers from the Karolinska Institute (Stockholm, Sweden) have conducted a study that on Sectra’s (Linköping, Sweden) online service, Sectra OneScreen, which can be combined with routine mammography exams. The study’s findings revealed that Sectra OneScreen is fully equal to other more expensive methods currently in use to predict hip fractures caused by osteoporosis, a disorder that affects one in two women.

Image: With a single, standard X-ray image of the hand, acquired on a mammography modality, it is possible to measure women’s bone health (Photo courtesy of Sectra).

Sectra OneScreen can easily be combined with mammograms by capturing a hand X-ray at the same time as breast images utilizing the same radiology equipment. The extra examination takes less than 30 seconds. Researchers have shown that the technique is equivalent to dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), the gold standard for predicting hip fractures.

“If we can identify people with osteoporosis and treat them with drugs, we can reduce the risk of hip fracture. Our research shows that DXR [the patented technology on which Sectra OneScreen is based] is a technique that lends itself well to this, maybe at general health check-ups, or screenings, for example, or when people seek treatment for a suspected hand or wrist fracture,” said Assoc. Prof. Torkel Brismar, who led the study at the department of clinical sciences, Intervention and Technology, in an earlier press release from the Karolinska Institute.

A hip fracture creates serious difficulties for people and quality of life is impaired for many individuals. About 10%-15% of people die within one year as a result of their fractures. In addition to their own suffering, these patients frequently require extremer care. Treating osteoporosis with medication can reduce the risk of hip fracture.

“If all mammograms were combined with osteoporosis screenings, a portion of the hip fractures occurring every year could be prevented, which would reduce personal suffering and generate major cost savings for the healthcare sector,” said Fredrik Agholme, medical expert at Sectra.

Related Links:
Karolinska Institute
Sectra