Aluminum phantoms are compatible with which of the following models?

• A. Hologic and Lunar
• B. Prodigy, DPX-NT, and DPX-MD+
• C. Norland and Prodigy
• D. GE and Hologic

Answer: (B)

The correct response identifies the compatibility of aluminum phantoms with specific bone densitometry models, particularly the Prodigy, DPX-NT, and DPX-MD+ systems.

Aluminum phantoms are used in bone densitometry for calibration and quality assurance purposes. These phantoms mimic human bone density and provide a reference standard for measuring the precision and accuracy of the densitometric measurements taken by the units. The Prodigy and DPX series were designed to work effectively with aluminum phantoms, ensuring that the calibrations performed using these phantoms yield reliable and reproducible results.

Understanding the specific compatibility of equipment with aluminum phantoms is crucial for operators to maintain quality control and ensure the accuracy of bone density measurements. Reliable calibration directly impacts patient care by ensuring that diagnoses related to osteoporosis and other bone health conditions are based on accurate readings. Therefore, having the correct phantom for the right model is integral to the practice of bone densitometry.