Is the ultrasound test that measures bone density in the heel bone an acceptable screening tool for osteoporosis?
With osteoporosis still a major and growing health concern for Canadians, new methods of assessment are always an important area of interest. Recent technology has developed an alternative technique- quantitative ultrasound (QUS) that measures bone mineral density (BMD) in the heel and other bones. Several companies in Canada are offering this service privately, outside the provincial medicare system, for payment by the patient or a sponsor, such as a pharmacy. Osteoporosis Canada recognizes QUS as a useful tool, especially in areas where dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in not available: it is inexpensive, portable, easy to use and does not involve ionizing radiation (e.g. x-rays). But questions remain about how widespread a role it should play in assessing BMD. The scientific community has raised concerns about the technological diversity, standards and instrument precision regarding these devices. Quality assurance is another issue: as yet, no formal training or accreditation process
