Third metacarpal bone mineral density assessment in the standing horse by dual X-ray absorptiometry: suitability, precision and accuracy.

The research article discusses the usage of a new portable dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) device for assessing bone mineral density in horses while they are standing. It evaluates the device’s effectiveness, precision, and accuracy for this application.

Objective of the research

• The objective of this research was to test the suitability, precision, and accuracy of a new portable DXA device for assessing bone mineral density in the standing horse, specifically in the third metacarpal bone.

Methods of research

• Precision was analyzed by calculating variations in measurements from repeated tests with and without limb repositioning. This aimed to evaluate the repeatability and reproducibility of the device – where repeatability is the variation in measurements taken by a single person while using the same method on identical occasions, and reproducibility refers to the degree of agreement between measurements taken by different people.
• These factors were tested ex-vivo, as well as through in-vivo experimentation focusing on intra- and inter-operator reproducibility.
• To test accuracy, the bone mineral content of several bone samples determined by DXA was compared to their ash weight – a standard method for measuring mineral content.

Results and conclusions

• The repeatability and reproducibility percentages determined for the device were found to be minimal both ex-vivo and in-vivo, indicating good precision.
• Under in-vivo conditions, reproducibility varied between 2.91 and 4.06% for the same operator and between 3.13 and 5.53% for different operators.
• The device’s ability to accurately measure bone mineral content was also deemed high, with a correlation of over 0.99 between measurements from DXA and ashing.
• Overall, the research concluded that the DXA device is usable, accurate, and precise, with a sensitivity rate of 8.23% for individual longitudinal monitoring.
• Using the third metacarpal bone as an example, the research demonstrated that the device is suitable for both experimental and clinical monitoring of bone density in horses.