Microradiograms of the specimens of trabecular bone of iliac ala were processed into digital images and then analysed with the use of computer application. 120 images depicting 10 specimens of normal bone and 10 specimens of osteoporotic bone were analysed. Each specimen was recorded in 6 angular positions in relation to x-ray tube axis. The areas of particular greyness shades were measured and coefficients P defined as the quotients of these areas were calculated. Then, the values obtained for normal and osteoporotic bones were analysed and compared. We found a coefficient allowing for the differentiation between normal and osteoporotic bone. It was observed that the values of coefficient remain between 0.1 and 0.4 for normal bone, and between 0.6 and 18.6 for osteoporotic bone. The coefficient assumes various ranges of values for normal and osteoporotic bones. For normal bone, the value of parameter is lower than 0.4, while it is higher than 0.4 for osteoporotic bone. In the case of advanced osteoporosis, this value is much higher than 1.0. The classification of bones based on the values of coefficient P resulted in 95%; compliance in the cases analysed in our study.

Keywords: computer analysi, radiograms, Osteoporosis, trabecular structure