Bone Densitometry Scans

Bone density scanning, also called dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) or bone densitometry, is an enhanced form of x-ray technology that is used to measure bone loss.

It used to be difficult to detect when your bones were fragile until after you broke a bone. By this time, your bones might already be too weak to repair. With bone density tests, it now possible to measure how many grams of calcium and other bone minerals you have and possible reduce the effects of osteoporosis or bone weakness.

This bone density scanning is usually done on an outpatient basis and is quick and painless. You will only need to lie or sit for a few minutes depending on the purpose of the bone density scan.

Particular scans sites are more suitable for certain patients. Scans at the hip, for example, are better for predicting hip fractures but some patients are unable to get into position for them.

Scans of the forearm are quick and precise but cannot be used in people who have previously had fractures of both wrists or who have some types of arthritis.

When do you need a Bone Densitometry Scans?

The Bone densitometry scans can assess an individual's risk for developing fractures.

The risk of fracture is affected by age, body weight, history of prior fracture, family history of osteoporotic fractures and life style issues such as cigarette smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

Bone density testing is strongly recommended if you:

• Are a post-menopausal woman and not taking estrogen.
• Have a personal or maternal history of hip fracture or smoking.
• Are a man with clinical conditions associated with bone loss.
• Use medications that are known to cause bone loss, including corticosteroids,
• Have type 1 (formerly called juvenile or insulin-dependent) diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease or a family history of osteoporosis.
• Have high bone turnover, which shows up in the form of excessive collagen in urine samples.
• Have a thyroid condition, such as hyperthyroidism.
• Have a parathyroid condition, such as hyperparathyroidism,
• Have experienced a fracture after only mild trauma, and
• Have had x-ray evidence of vertebral fracture or other signs of osteoporosis.

Your doctor will determine if you need the examination and since it is painless, most patients are very happy to oblige.

What are the Risks in Bone Densitometry Scans?

Though no complications are expected with Bone densitometry scans, there is always a slight chance of cancer from excessive exposure to radiation. However, the benefit of an accurate diagnosis far outweighs the risk.

Special care is taken during Bone densitometry scans to use the lowest radiation dose possible while producing the best images for evaluation. Technology is also evolving very fast to make the procedure safer and more efficient.

The effective radiation dose from this procedure is about the same as the average person receives from background radiation in one day.

Women should always inform their physician or x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.

Bookmark this:

Bookmark this page