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bone density scans
A bone density (or DEXA) scan measures bone thickness to find out if you have osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease that results in weakened, brittle bones making patients susceptible to broken or fractured bones. The patients who are most at risk for osteoporosis and who benefit most from this kind of diagnostic testing are post-menopausal women. The results of the test may show that if a patient needs treatment for osteoporosis.
During a comprehensive examination with bone densitometry, the patient lies still on a padded table with the unit scans two or more areas, usually the fracture-prone hip and spine. Unlike typical X-ray machines, radiation exposure during done density screenings is extremely low — less than the radiation exposure during a coast-to-coast airline flight. The entire process takes only minutes to complete, depending on the number of sites scanned. It involves no injections or invasive procedures, and you may remain fully clothed.
Who should get a bone density scan?
The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that women age 65 or older have routine tests to measure their bone thickness. If you are at increased risk for fractures caused by osteoporosis, routine screening should start sooner. Talk to your doctor about your risk factors and when to start bone mineral density screening.
You may also want to have this test if you:
- Have a low-trauma fracture
Low trauma means that you broke a bone doing something that would not normally cause a broken bone, such as a simple fall. - Are elderly and at risk
Experts suggest that older men and women talk to their doctors about osteoporosis and have a bone mineral density test if they are at risk. - Have been receiving treatment for osteoporosis
Your doctor may want you to have a follow-up bone mineral density test after you have been on a treatment plan for osteoporosis. If this is suggested for you, it is done no more than every 2 years.
Preparing for a Bone Density Scan
Unless instructed otherwise, eat normally on the day of the exam, but avoid taking calcium supplements for at least 24 hours prior to your appointment. Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Sweat suits and other casual attire without zippers, buttons, grommets or any metal are preferred. You should not have had a barium study, radio-isotope injection, or oral or intravenous contrast material from a CT scan or MRI within seven days prior to this test.
