Radiology providers can play a critical role in osteoporosis care by enabling early detection and ongoing monitoring of bone health. Across New Zealand, well-established private sector radiology networks offer extensive access to imaging services, making radiology a key component in the identification and management of osteoporosis. These networks present a valuable opportunity to integrate radiology more deeply into osteoporosis care, particularly in detecting vertebral fractures, which are often underdiagnosed.
Radiology providers play a vital role in early detection and monitoring of osteoporosis, particularly by identifying underdiagnosed vertebral fractures.
A challenge in this process is the lack of a specific ICD code for fragility fractures, making it essential to look for key words and clues in imaging reports that suggest underlying osteoporosis. By enhancing protocols to include assessments for vertebral fractures in lateral X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans conducted for other conditions, radiology providers can significantly contribute to early diagnosis and intervention.
Moreover, the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) in medical imaging offers promising opportunities to automate this opportunistic case finding. AI algorithms can be trained to detect subtle signs of vertebral fractures and other indicators of osteoporosis, ensuring that these findings are not overlooked. Implementing AI-driven tools across radiology practices in New Zealand could revolutionise the early detection of osteoporosis, leading to better health outcomes for patients nationwide.