What was the typical energy level used in hand X-rays before DPA?

• A. Low energy
• B. High energy
• C. Mid-range energy
• D. Ultra high energy

Answer: (A)

The typical energy level used in hand X-rays before Dual Photon Absorptiometry (DPA) was low energy. This is due to the fact that low-energy X-rays are more effective for imaging structures with lower atomic numbers, such as bones, because they minimize the scatter and improve image contrast. Low-energy X-rays are optimal for assessing bone density, as they allow for better penetration of soft tissue and provide clearer images of the skeletal structures.

In the context of bone densitometry, earlier technologies utilized lower energy levels to take advantage of the differential absorption of X-rays by bone versus soft tissue. This approach was essential for accurately determining bone density and diagnosing conditions such as osteoporosis.

Higher energy levels, in contrast, would not provide the same level of detail or contrast for soft tissues, making low energy the ideal choice for the specific needs of hand X-ray imaging before the advent of more advanced techniques like DPA.