Bone Densitometry >>

Register for this procedure in the Radiology Department, located on the ground floor of The Medical Center. Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment

Bone Densitometry is a sophisticated tool used to provide early diagnosis of osteoporosis, a disease of debilitating bone loss. Until recently, osteoporosis was not often diagnosed until complications, such as broken bones, occurred. With this simple test, early diagnosis and preventive treatment are possible.

A bone densitometer uses painless radiographic imaging to measure bone mineral density. Lying down on a table, fully clothed, you wait while the instrument briefly passes over you. Your measurements - based on age, weight, sex and ethnic background - are analyzed to determine your age-related fracture risk.

What is a Bone Densitometry?

This test uses a Bone Densitometry DXA (Dual X-ray Absorptiometry) scanner to evaluate and measure the density of bone in your spine, hips or forearms.

Why do I need it?

The test allows your health care provider to assess your risk of fractures due to bone loss to determine if dietary changes, weight-bearing exercise or medication may be useful in preventing or treating osteoporosis. Osteoporosis results in loss of bone mass leading to an increased risk of fractures of the hip, spine, and wrist. Men as well as women are affected by osteoporosis; however, women are at five times greater risk than men of developing the condition.

Some of the risk factors for osteoporosis are:

Female, amenorrhea, early menopause or surgically induced menopause

Thin and/or small boned

Advanced age
Family history of osteoporosis

Prolonged use of corticosteroids
Thyroid disease
Excessive use of alcohol
Cigarette smoking
Low vitamin D or calcium intake

Lack of exercise—sedentary lifestyle
Chemotherapy

What are the risks of a DXA Scan?

There are no risks associated with the Bone Densitometry DXA scan. You should not have this test, however, if you are pregnant or suspect that you are pregnant.

How do I prepare?

If you are taking calcium pills to supplement your diet, please do not take any on the day of your exam. Try to dress in a jogging suit, slacks or skirt with elasticized waistband and a jersey or knit top and to avoid clothing with snaps, buttons, and zippers. Metal and plastic in the area being scanned will interfere with the exam. Please allow 1⁄2 hour for your bone densitometry appointment.

What can I expect during the test?

DXA is a painless, non-invasive test. You will be asked to lie still on a padded table, while the scan is performed. The actual study lasts approximately 15 minutes.

How do I find out the results?

A final report will be sent to your health care provider who will discuss the results with you.

For more information about osteoporosis, go to WebMD or Today's Health.