Quantitative computed tomography

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Quantitative Computed Tomography

Quantitative computed tomography (pronunciation: kwon-ti-tey-tiv kuhm-pyoo-tid tom-uh-gruh-fee) is a medical imaging procedure that uses computed tomography (CT) scans to measure bone mineral density (BMD). It is also known by its abbreviation, QCT.

Etymology

The term originates from the Latin word quantitativus, meaning 'how much', and the Greek words komputron, meaning 'calculator', and tomos, meaning 'slice' or 'section'. Thus, the term essentially refers to a calculated measure of a specific section or slice of the body.

Procedure

Quantitative computed tomography involves the use of a standard X-ray CT scanner, with a calibration standard to convert Hounsfield Units of the CT image to bone mineral density values. The procedure is non-invasive and can be performed on various parts of the body, including the spine and hip.

Related Terms

  • Computed Tomography: An imaging procedure that uses computer-processed combinations of many X-ray measurements taken from different angles to produce cross-sectional images of specific areas of a scanned object.
  • Bone Mineral Density: The amount of bone mineral in bone tissue, a key indicator of bone health.
  • Hounsfield Units: A scale used for measuring radiodensity in computed tomography scans.
  • X-ray: A form of electromagnetic radiation used in imaging and therapy.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Quantitative computed tomography has the advantage of being able to provide 3D images and measure the density of the trabecular bone, which is more sensitive to changes in bone mineral density than cortical bone. However, it exposes the patient to a higher dose of radiation compared to other methods of measuring bone mineral density, such as Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA).

See Also

External links

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