Determination of baseline bone mineral density using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry in Suffolk-Dorset hybrid ewes.

Dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) has the ability to rapidly and non-invasively measure bone mineral density and is the most widely accepted method for quantitative assessment of bone mineral status There is scarce information available on the baseline bone mineral density (BMD) values in adult intact Suffolk Dorset ewes (5-7 years), a frequently used animal model for the study of post-menopausal osteoporosis. The objective of the present study was to determine the baseline bone mineral density values in 26 adult intact Suffolk-Dorset hybrid ewes using a Lunar Prodigy DPX x-ray bone densitometer. The DEXA scans of the femur, lumbar spine (L3-L6) and calcaneus were obtained.