Bone Densitometry

What Is a Bone Mineral Density Test?

Bone densitometry is a radiology test used primarily to detect osteopenia or osteoporosis, diseases in which the bone’s mineral content and density are low and the risk of fractures is increased. X-rays are used to measure the amount of minerals – mostly calcium – in your bones. This test is important for people who are at risk for osteoporosis, especially women and older adults. It is an important test for osteoporosis, which is the most common type of bone disease. Osteoporosis causes your bone tissue to become thin and frail over time and leads to disabling fractures.

A bone density test delivers approximately one-quarter to one-10th the radiation that occurs during an ordinary chest X-ray. It is a simple, painless and noninvasive procedure which takes approximately 15 minutes to perform.

Your bone densitometry exam may be the simplest medical examination you will have over the course of your life. Basically, you just lie back and let the bone densitometer do the work.

Why a Bone Mineral Density Test Is Performed

Your doctor may order a bone mineral density test if he/she suspects that your bones are becoming weaker, you are displaying symptoms of osteoporosis, or you have reached the age when preventive screening is necessary.

It is recommended that the following people get preventive screenings for bone mineral density:

• All women over the age of 65
• Women under the age of 65 who have a high risk of fractures

Women have an increased risk for osteoporosis if they smoke or consume three or more alcoholic beverages per day. They are also at an increased risk if they have:

• Chronic kidney disease
• Early menopause
• An eating disorder resulting in low body weight
• A family history of osteoporosis
• A “fragility fracture” (a broken bone caused by regular activities)
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Significant height loss (a sign of compression fractures in the spinal column)
• Very physically inactive lifestyle with minimal weight-bearing activities

Bone density testing is recommended for men who have had a hip or fragility fracture or have other risk factors such as the use of certain drugs for the treatment of prostate cancer.

How to Prepare for a Bone Mineral Density Test

There is no preparation required for this test. You will be asked to wear a comfortable two-piece outfit or one of our gowns during the test. You must not wear any metal buttons, buckles or zippers because metal can interfere with X-ray images. You will be asked to lie on your back on the exam table. An overhead arm will travel above your body while taking readings. It is very important that you lie still while the images are being taken so that the images are clear.

The exam can take from 10 to 20 minutes to complete. This exam is often used to diagnose osteoporosis.

Let the radiologist or technologist know if you are or suspect you might be pregnant.

After a Bone Mineral Density Test

Your bone density scan will generate a computerized printout, with an explanation, which will be provided to your physician. The radiologist will review your test results, and your doctor will discuss your results with you. Depending on your results and the reason for the test, your doctor may want to do follow-up testing and come up with a treatment plan to tackle any issues. When the tests are repeated over time, they can also help track your rate of bone loss.

If you have further questions regarding osteoporosis or bone density, feel free to contact our facility or check with your physician.