Comparing bone density measurements using CT and DXA scans

Protocol-optimization in Computed Tomography for the Quantification of Bone Mineral Density (BMD)

NA · University of Zurich · NCT06305156

This study tests if a new type of CT scan can measure bone density more accurately than the standard DXA scan for people at risk of osteoporosis and osteopenia.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Zurich (other)
Locations1 site (Zürich)
Trial IDNCT06305156 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of photon-counting CT scans in measuring bone mineral density (BMD) compared to traditional DXA scans. Participants will undergo a clinically indicated CT scan and a separate DXA scan to assess the accuracy and optimization of BMD quantification. The study seeks to improve the methodology for measuring bone density, which is crucial for diagnosing conditions like osteoporosis and osteopenia.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults referred for a clinically indicated CT examination of the lumbar area who can provide informed consent.

Not a fit: Patients under 18, pregnant women, or those with specific contraindications to CT scans will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate and efficient methods for diagnosing and monitoring osteoporosis and related bone conditions.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using CT for BMD measurement is being explored, this specific comparison with photon-counting CT is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Informed Consent signed by the subject
* Referral to a regular clinically indicated CT examination covering the lumbar area (e.g., Abdomen, Thorax + Abdomen, Neck + Thorax +Abdomen)
* Informed written and oral consent (interpreter present in case of foreign language patients)
* No contraindication to the clinically indicated CT examination

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients \< 18 years
* Pregnant women
* Vulnerable subjects
* Contraindications to the clinically indicated CT scan
* Multiple Myeloma
* Diffuse bone metastasis
* Fixateur interne in the lumbar spine
* Kyphoplasty in the lumbar spine
* Enterally administrated contrast agent
* Obtaining informed consent is not possible
* Withdrawal of consent orally or in writing
* Inability to follow the procedures of the investigation, e.g., due to language problems, psychological disorders, dementia, etc. of the subject
* Immobility (patients confined to a wheelchair or to bed)

Where this trial is running

Zürich

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Osteoporosis, Osteopenia, Bone Loss

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.