Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) is the gold standard for assessing bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture risk in vivo. However, it has limitations in the spine because vertebrae show marked regional variations in BMD that are difficult to detect clinically. This study investigated whether micro-CT can provide improved estimates of BMD that better predict vertebral strength. Ten cadaveric vertebral bodies (mean age: 83.7 +/− 10.8 yrs) were scanned using lateral-projection DEXA and Micro-CT. Standardised protocols were used to determine BMD of the whole vertebral body and of anterior/posterior and superior/inferior regions. Vertebral body volume was assessed by water displacement after which specimens were compressed to failure to determine their compressive strength. Specimens were then ashed to determine their bone mineral content (BMC). Parameters were compared using ANOVA and linear regression.Introduction
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