Asymmetric bone mineral density in the bilateral femoral necks due to gluteal implants: a case report

• Main Authors: Jennifer L. Favinger, MD, Charles H. Chesnut, MD, Felix S. Chew, MD
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier 2017-06-01
• Series: Radiology Case Reports
• Subjects: Bone densitometry; DXA; Artifact; Gluteal implants
• Online Access: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1930043316303685

Interpreting asymmetric bone mineral density in the bilateral hips on dual energy x-ray absorptiometry requires investigation into the potential causes, both real and artifactual. Silicone gluteal implants have been reported to cause abnormally elevated bone mineral density. We report a case of abnormally low bone mineral density in a patient with bilateral gluteal implants. This is likely due to patient positioning and inability of the computer to identify the superior margin of the proximal femur and the femoral neck.