QCT (Quantitative Computed Tomography) is a measurement method that uses computed tomography (CT) technology to assess bone mineral density. This method is approved by the American College of Radiology (ACR) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
It can be used for early diagnosis and follow-up of osteoporosis, osteopenia and other bone diseases. Unlike traditional two-dimensional bone density measurements, it provides more detailed results by analyzing bone tissue in three dimensions. It is especially used to assess bone density in the spine and hip region.
QCT Bone Density Measurement at NPISTANBUL Hospital
QCT bone density measurement service is offered at NPISTANBUL Hospital. This method provides a detailed examination of bone health and is an important tool for early diagnosis.
- It provides early diagnosis in individuals at risk of osteoporosis.
- It analyzes bone loss in detail.
- Patient comfort is high, the procedure is fast and safe.
- It provides a safe measurement with the use of low dose radiation.
How Does QCT Work?
QCT is a method that analyzes bone density in detail using a computed tomography device.
- Shooting Time: It takes an average of 50 seconds and is a fast procedure.
- Radiation Dose: It is a low-dose scan close to mammography level.
- Measurement Areas: The most at-risk areas of bone health are evaluated, especially the spine and hip region.
This method helps to monitor bone health in the long term and detect possible losses at an early stage.
Is QCT Reliable?
QCT is a reliable bone density measurement method. It has been evaluated as one of the three main bone measurement systems accepted by the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF). It has also been thoroughly reviewed and supported for clinical use by the American College of Radiology (ACR) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
Benefits of QCT for Patients and Doctors
For patients
- Offers regular monitoring of bone health.
- Helps diagnose diseases such as osteoporosis early.
- The radiation dose is low, it is a safe measurement process.
- The procedure time is very short and results can be obtained quickly.
For doctors
- Provides precise data on bone density.
- Makes it easier to follow the progression of osteoporosis.
- Contributes to the development of personalized treatment plans for bone health.
- QCT helps to make more precise diagnoses based on patients' individual risk factors.
Who Can Receive QCT Measurement?
QCT can be performed for individuals who want to assess their bone health and identify potential risks.
It may be recommended for the following groups:
- Individuals at risk of osteoporosis or osteopenia.
- Postmenopausal women (bone density may decrease due to hormone changes).
- Individuals over 65 years of age (high risk of bone loss due to aging).
- Individuals with a previous fracture (bone density may need to be assessed).
- People with a family history of osteoporosis (genetic predisposition is an important factor).
- Long-term users of steroids, thyroid medications or certain hormone therapies (these medications can affect bone health).
- Individuals who want to be evaluated in terms of bone health (occupational groups at risk for bone loss, athletes, etc.).
Differences between QCT and DEXA
- QCT measures volumetric bone density by analyzing bones in three dimensions (3D), while DEXA uses a two-dimensional (2D) imaging method.
- QCT can examine bone structure in more detail by differentiating between cortical and trabecular bone, while DEXA assesses total bone density.
- By directly measuring the mineral density of bone tissue, QCT can provide more precise data for diagnosing osteoporosis.
- QCT is not affected by degenerative changes (e.g. calcification or arterial calcifications), whereas DEXA measurements can be misleading in such cases.
- QCT can detect bone loss at an early stage by measuring more precisely, especially in individuals with low bone density.
- QCT measurements can analyze bone quality and fracture risk in more detail, while DEXA provides a more general bone density assessment.
- QCT analyzes bones in three dimensions, while DEXA provides a two-dimensional assessment.
- QCT can measure bone density more precisely and provides detailed data.
- DEXA can be affected by factors such as scoliosis, osteoarthritis and obesity, while QCT is independent of such factors.
