Which of the following can complicate the scanning of a proximal femur?

• A. Osteoporosis
• B. Previous fractures or surgeries
• C. Leg length discrepancies
• D. All of the above

Answer: (B)

The question addresses factors that can complicate the scanning of a proximal femur in bone densitometry. The correct answer, indicating that previous fractures or surgeries can complicate this process, is significant for several reasons.

Previous fractures can disrupt the integrity of the bone structure, affecting the precision of the scan. Bone changes from healing or surgical interventions could involve the use of hardware or other materials, which can introduce artifacts in the imaging process. The presence of these artifacts can obscure accurate measurements of bone mineral density (BMD). Furthermore, the anatomy may change due to the positioning of the implant or the way the bone healed after a fracture, making it necessary to carefully consider how to position the patient to capture the most accurate data.

In this context, osteoporosis, while a significant factor affecting bone quality and density, does not itself complicate the scanning process in the same direct way that past fractures or surgeries could. It typically influences the results and interpretation of the scan rather than the ability to perform the scan itself. Similarly, leg length discrepancies may affect patient positioning and comfort during the scan but are less likely to fundamentally obstruct the imaging of the proximal femur compared to the complexities introduced by prior fractures or surgical interventions.

Thus, understanding that previous injuries and surgeries