Design of bone density identification method using transmission quantitative ultrasound

Osteoporosis is characterized by reduced bone mass and the alteration of bone tissue microarchitecture, as well as decreased bone strength. Regularly assessment of the Bone Mass/Mineral Density (BMD) is important to manage osteoporosis. This research aims to design identification method of bone mass using transmission quantitative ultrasound (QUS). In these method, ultrasound waves were transmitted from the transducer transmitter, then passed through the bone samples and received by the transducer receiver. Air, gel and starch solution were used as conduction medium for ultrasound wave. Prototype of QUS were developed using the TC4427CPA driver, IRFZ44N mosfet, capacitors (0.1 and 4.7 µF), and 10 kΩ resistors arranged on the protoboard. A femur bone of beef was used as sample for evaluating the decrease of BUA between compact and spongy bone. This system was tested using a DC Power Supply GW Instek GPS-1830, Function Generator GW Instek GFG-8020H, and Digital oscilloscope Tektronix TDS 1002C to analyze the signal. There was a difference in the broadband ultrasound attenuation between the medium gel, air and flour solution. Gel was the best medium for conducting ultrasound wave. In conclusion, the value of BUA was greater in spongy bone than compacta bone.