Bone Densitometry

Bone density scanning, also known as bone densitometry or dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), is a noninvasive diagnostic procedure used to determine the extent of bone loss by measuring bone mineral density. This procedure is most commonly used to assess the lower spine and hips, and is considered the current standard for measuring bone mineral density.

Where do you offer this procedure?

Who is this procedure for?

Bone densitometry can help diagnose osteoporosis and monitor its treatment. Bone densitometry is recommended for patients at risk for this disease, as well as bone fractures in general. Certain factors, such as age, body weight, medical history, family history and lifestyle habits, can greatly increase the risk of fractures. Patients at a higher risk for osteoporosis or fractures are often recommended for bone density testing. These may include:

Post-menopausal women who are not taking estrogen
Post-menopausal women who are tall (over 5’7) or thin (under 125 pounds)
Patients with type 1 diabetes, liver disease or kidney disease
Patients who use medication that cause bone loss, such as corticosteroids or anti-seizure medication
Patients with a thyroid or parathyroid condition
Patients with a high bone turnover
Patients who have had nontraumatic fractures or are already diagnosed with osteoporosis

What happens during a bone density scan?

During a bone density scan, the patient lies on a table with an X-ray generator on one side and an imaging device on the other. The targeted area of the body, such as the spine, hip or forearm, will be positioned between the X-ray generator and imaging device as the X-ray generator sends low-dose radiation beams with two energy peaks through the body that are used to examine soft tissue and bone. The soft tissue results are then subtracted from the total to determine the patient’s bone mineral density.

This procedure usually takes 10 to 30 minutes to perform, depending on which parts of the body are being examined. The results are visible after just a few minutes. Patients can return home immediately after the procedure.

The results of your bone density scan are evaluated and compared to a reference population of similar age, weight and sex. This information is then used to make a diagnosis about your bone status.

What are the benefits of this procedure?

A bone density scan is a simple, fast procedure with no needles and no need for anesthesia. There is no real preparation needed for this exam either. This exam also includes a very small radiation dose, much smaller than a standard chest x-ray. No radiation remains in the body after the procedure, and there are usually no side effects associated with a bone density scan.

Bone densitometry is considered the most accurate diagnostic test for osteoporosis and can help effectively determine a patient’s risk of fracture.

What are the risks associated with this procedure?

There are no major complications or side effects associated with the bone densitometry procedure. However, it is important to note that this exam cannot predict when or where a fracture may occur; it can only determine a patient’s risk of fracture.

National Osteoporosis Foundation

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