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Bone
densitometry, using an advanced technology called DXA (short for dual
energy X-ray absorptiometry) safely, accurately and painlessly measures
bone density and the mineral content of bone. During a comprehensive
bone evaluation with DXA, the patient lies comfortably still on a
padded table while the DXA unit scans one or more areas, usually the
spine or hip. Unlike typical X-ray machines, radiation exposure during
bone densitometry is extremely low, less than 1/10 the exposure of
a normal chest X-ray. The entire process takes only minutes to complete
depending on the number of sites scanned. It involves no injections
or invasive procedures and patients remain fully clothed.
Preparing
for Bone Densitometry
- Unless
instructed otherwise by one of our clinicians, 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 or any metal are preferred.
- You
should not have had a barium study, radiosotope injection oral
or intravenous contrast material from a CT scan or MRI within
seven days prior to your DXA test.
How
Bone Densitometry Works
1)
The equipment, DXA is a fast, convenient and precise way
to measure bone density to help determine a persons risk of developing
osteoporosis.
2) Bone density scan, most common examination sites are the
hip, spine, and sometimes the forearm. Evaluation includes measurement
of height and weight, a thorough history, and risk assessment.
3) Data analysis, bone mineral density is calculated and
compared to normal BMD values, matched for age and sex, to confirm
or exclude osteoporosis. A low BMD (Bone Mineral Density) by DXA
may predict the likelihood of developing osteoporosis and can help
determine a treatment plan.
4) The report, A report will be issued to your doctor that
consists of your bone density measurements, a comparison of your
results against an extensive database of young normal bone density
values, a comparison of your results against a database of other
patients your age and sex, and recommendations for treatment or
prevention.
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