What is the preferred scanning side for a scoliosis patient during a proximal femur scan?

In the case of a scoliosis patient, the preferred scanning side during a proximal femur scan is the convexity side. This choice is based on the anatomical and physiological considerations that arise from the curvature of the spine associated with scoliosis.

When a patient has scoliosis, the spine curves laterally, creating a convexity on one side and a concavity on the other. Scanning on the convexity side often provides better visualization of the proximal femur and hip joint structures. This is primarily because the convex side is more likely to have a less obstructed view due to the alignment of the hips and the pelvis in relation to the spine's curvature. Scanning from this side helps to ensure that the scanner can accurately capture the bone density without interference from the anatomical changes associated with scoliosis.

Choosing the convex side also helps to reduce the risk of introducing measurement errors that can arise if the concave side is scanned. The concave side may have altered strain and loading patterns that could influence bone density readings, necessitating a more cautious approach to interpretation.

Therefore, scanning the convexity side is important for obtaining reliable and accurate data when evaluating bone density in scoliosis patients, which is essential for diagnosing and managing conditions like osteoporosis and for assessing fracture