[Bone x-ray computed tomographic densitometry by the dual energy technic in a single rotation. Initial results].

Computed tomography is one of the most promising methods for the non-invasive measurement of the bone mass. A review of the theoretical bases of the double energy technique developed by the authors' experimental study on tubes containing defined calcium concentrations and on cadaver vertebrae, demonstrates the value of this investigation in this field. The theoretical study also reveals the limitations of the technique, in particular the decrease in the values induced by fat. The value of this new technique has been confirmed by the preliminary clinical results obtained in non-osteoporotic control women and in women with confirmed osteoporosis, which obviously need to be confirmed by larger series.