Speed of sound measured in evaluation of osteoporosis in normal women in Hangzhou

Objective To establish the parameter database of bone speed of sound in healthy women in Hangzhou and the criterion for diagnosis of osteoporosis(OP) Methods Quantitative ultrasound values of SOS using Sunlight Omnisense TM 7000S were measured in the distal 1/3 radius (RAD), the proximal phalanx of the third finger (PLX), metatarsal V (MTR) and mid shaft tibia (TIB) in 1208 cases Results The peak of SOS was found in women 35～45 years old in four sites; there after the values of SOS decreased with age There were two accelerated SOS slackening stages at early and later post menopausal periods The former was observed at RAD within 10 years post menopause with a decrease in SOS by 2 4% per year while the latter was found at TIB with a decrease by 1 8% per year 25 years after menopause The accumulative SOS slackening age increased with age The rate of accumulative SOS slackening was 13%～18% by 85 years of age OP was detected in 34～70% of women over 60 years old The detection rate of OP was highest at RAD, second at PLX and lowest at RIB Conclusion The peak SOS values differ with the age and the sites of fracture The SOS slackening is accelerated affter menopause; the physician should pay attention to this result and give proper therapy The RAD is the sensitive site of bone SOS measured and OP detected