With the rapid proliferation of highly sensitive bone densitometry devices since 1995, the level of skill required to operate them and interpret their results has risen sharply and now often exceeds the formal training of many operators. In Bone Densitometry for Technologists, leading densitometry experts Sydney Lou Bonnick, MD, FACP, and Lori Ann Lewis, MRT, CDT, set out to correct this deficiency by reviewing in simple language the essentials of densitometry and its day-to-day practice. Written specifically for radiologic technologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and dedicated densitometry technologists, this book provides all of the practical knowledge needed to expertly operate any of today's sophisticated densitometry machines. Topics range from technical descriptions of all FDA-approved densitometry devices to a clinical review of osteoporosis, and include comprehensive tutorials on computer basics, anatomy for densitometrists, the art of interpreting test results, and performing successful precision studies-all crafted to meet the daily needs of the practicing densitometrist. Additional chapters complete the technologist's skill-set with discussions of mechanical maintenance, radiation safety, and the terminology and conventions used in the profession. Comprehensive, informative, and highly practical, Bone Densitometry for Technologists emphasizes the role of densitometry and technologists in the diagnosis and management of osteoporosis. It provides a sound basis for a complete understanding of the often esoteric technical manuals supplied by manufacturers, and goes far beyond that understanding to permit expert operation of any approved densitometry device. Written for radiology technologists and other medical professionals, this book reviews the daily practice of densitometry, focusing on the skills needed for operating densitometry devices and interpret their results. It includes technical descriptions of all FDA-approved densitometry devices and a clinical review of osteoporosis. Mechanical maintenance, radiation safety, and the relevant terminology and conventions are also covered. Bonnick is the medical director for the Institute for Women's Health at Texas Woman's University. Lewis is a medical radiologist technologist. c. Book News Inc Front Matter....Pages i-xviii An Introduction to Conventions in Densitometry....Pages 1-23 Densitometry Techniques....Pages 25-59 Skeletal Anatomy in Densitometry....Pages 61-97 Densitometry Devices Approved by the Food and Drug Administration....Pages 99-144 Computer Basics....Pages 145-168 Precision in Bone Densitometry....Pages 169-181 Radiation Safety in X-Ray Densitometry....Pages 183-200 Quality Control Procedures....Pages 201-219 An Overview of Osteoporosis....Pages 221-243 Interpretation of Bone Densitometry Data....Pages 245-268 Back Matter....Pages 269-323
