What is the main site used for radiogammetry measurements?

• A. Radius
• B. Femur
• C. Metacarpals
• D. Spine

Answer: (C)

In radiogammetry, the primary site for measuring bone density is the metacarpals. This is because the metacarpals, which are the long bones in the hand, provide a suitable location for assessing bone density using a non-invasive radiographic technique. The measurements taken from the metacarpals are particularly useful for evaluating bone mineral density and can serve as an indicator of overall bone health and risk of fractures.

The choice of metacarpals is based on several factors, including their size, accessibility, and the suitability of the bone structure for detecting changes in mineral content. Bone density evaluations at this site can reflect changes associated with osteoporosis and other metabolic bone diseases, making it a valuable site for assessing skeletal health.

While the radius, femur, and spine are also important sites for measuring bone density, they are typically assessed using different methods, such as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), which provides a more comprehensive view of bone health across larger areas or weight-bearing regions. In contrast, radiogammetry focuses on the finer details at the metacarpal level.