What is Bone Densitometry?
Bone densitometry, also called dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is an enhanced form of x-ray technology used to measure bone mineral density (BMD). The DXA machine uses a thin, invisible beam of low-dose x-rays with two distinct energy peaks. One peak is absorbed mainly by soft tissue and the other by bone. The soft tissue amount is subtracted from the total and what remains is a patient's bone mineral density.
The test can also assess your risk for developing fractures. If your bone density is found to be low, you and your physician can work together on a treatment plan to help prevent fractures before they occur. DXA is also effective in tracking the effects of treatment for osteoporosis or for other conditions that cause bone loss.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Women should always inform their physician or x-ray technologist if there is a possibility they are pregnant.
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What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition of reduced bone mass that often affects women after menopause but may also be found in men. It involves a gradual loss of calcium, causing the bones to become thinner, more fragile and more likely to break. Fortunately, this bone loss is detectable and treatable. Testing performed with a DXA Scanner is quick, safe and non-invasive so we can test for osteoporosis in our offices.
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Procedure: How is Bone Densitometry Performed?
Bone densitometry is a simple, non-invasive procedure performed on an outpatient basis. The study is usually completed in 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the body parts examined. Typically, the lower back and hips are measured.
You will be asked to lie on a padded examination table. Once on the table you may be asked to remain still for a short time while the arm of the machine passes over your body taking measurements. It is important that you stay as still as possible during the procedure to ensure a clear and useful image. The procedure is painless and radiation exposure is minimal.
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Preparation
You may eat normally on the day of the exam, but do not take calcium supplements for at least 24 hours beforehand. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, avoiding garments that have zippers, belts or buttons made of metal.
Inform your physician if you recently had a barium examination or have been injected with a contrast material for a computed tomography (CT) scan or radioisotope scan; you may have to wait 10 to 14 days before undergoing a DXA test.
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Afterwards
The results of a DXA bone density exam are interpreted by a radiologist, a physician specially trained to diagnose conditions and diseases by obtaining and interpreting medical images. The radiologist will send an interpretation of your results and a signed report to your primary care physician. Your doctor will discuss these results with you and explain what they mean in relation to your health.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Women should always inform their physician or x-ray technologist if there is a possibility they are pregnant.
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