Services | Radiology | Bone Density Testing

Bone Density Testing


1. Exam Description


Bone Densitometry is a safe, low-dose x-ray procedure that assists in diagnosing low bone density. This exam estimates the amount of bone mineral content in specific areas of the body, including the spine, hip, and forearm or the total body. Physicians use the bone density information to decide if treatment for osteoporosis is necessary. This technology is called Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry or DEXA. It works by measuring the amount of x-rays that are absorbed by the bones in your body. The dual (two) x-ray energies used allow the machine to tell the difference between bone and soft tissue, giving a very accurate estimation of bone density.

2. Preparations


There are no special requirements to have a bone density test. However, you should:

Wear comfortable clothing that contains no metal (i.e. sweat suits without zippers or grommets)
Do Not take any calcium supplements for 3 hours prior to the exam
Do Not schedule a bone density exam within the 2 days following a nuclear medicine scan or any x-ray involving IV contrast or barium.

3. Why this test?


Bone is a living tissue that is constantly being broken down and reformed. As a person grows, bone forms faster than it breaks down until it reaches a peak bone mass between the ages of 25 and 35. After age 35, both men and women lose bone at a greater rate than it forms, causing bone loss. Women after menopause start to lose bone at a much more rapid rate than men of the same age. This rapid bone loss is usually due to a decrease in the production of the estrogen hormone. As a greater amount of bone is lost, the bones become porous and brittle. Early detection is the best way to protect against osteoporosis.

4. Exam Results


A Radiologist will study the images and send a typed report to the designated health care provider.

5. Please Note


Take no calcium supplements for 3 hours prior to the exam.