Which area of the body is NOT typically associated with trabecular (cancellous) bone?

• A. Spine
• B. Ward's Area
• C. Calcaneus
• D. Femur

Answer: (D)

The femur is primarily composed of cortical bone, particularly in its diaphysis (the shaft of the bone), which is dense and provides strength to support weight and withstand stress during movement. While the femur does contain areas of trabecular (cancellous) bone, such as in the neck and head, it is not traditionally recognized as a primary site for evaluating trabecular bone compared to other options listed.

In contrast, the spine (particularly the vertebral bodies) is predominantly composed of trabecular bone, which is crucial for its role in load-bearing and distributing stress. Ward's Area, located in the proximal femur, is also associated with trabecular bone and is specifically of interest in bone densitometry. The calcaneus (heel bone) consists predominantly of trabecular bone, making it another common site for fracture risk assessments in those with low bone density.

Therefore, while the femur does have some trabecular bone, it is less representative of a site typically associated with trabecular structures compared to the other areas mentioned, making it the correct choice in this context.