Walker Magnetics Group, Inc. has developed an ultrasound device that uses the frequency-dependent characteristics of bone to measure the density and structure of trabecular bone in vivo. A prototype unit is being used to evaluate clinically the utility of measurements of the os calcis (heel) to diagnose the progress of osteoporosis. This research will use the feedback from these studies to modify the hardware and technique to improve the repeatability and verify the efficiency of the apparatus as a tool in clinical screening for osteoporosis.Researchers, using input from technicians and physicians, will support and coordinate ongoing studies of the device's utility to determine areas needing improvement. Design modifications will be made and introduced to the users. These will include improved heel positioning controls and modification or elimination of the present water bath. A final report will describe the measurement repeatability and the correlation of results with other methods of screening osteoporosis.National Institute on Aging (NIA)
