Bone Densitometry Osteoporosis Screening

Osteoporosis and its associated fractures can take away your mobility and your independence.

Osteoporosis reduces the strength of your bones, causing them to become brittle and prone to fractures. 

A woman's risk of hip fracture alone is equal to the combined risk of developing breast, uterine, and ovarian cancer. Up to 20% of women who suffer hip fractures die within one year of the fracture. Post-menopausal women are in the highest risk group. 

Risk factors for osteoporosis:

•  Age
•  Caucasian or Asian descent
•  Thin or small build
•  Previous fracture
•  Family history of the disease
•  Early menopause (before age 45)
•  Smoking
•  Inactive lifestyle
•  Some medications (including steroids and thyroid hormones)
•  Alcohol abuse
•  Inadequate calcium intake

If you think you may be at risk for osteoporosis, ask your physician about a bone density test. Your doctor can schedule a scan for you. 

Bone Densitometry Screening

The Bone Densitometer uses dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). The exam is a simple, painless, non-invasive procedure that can detect osteoporosis and low bone density. The scan provides bone density measurements for spine, wrist, and/or hip.It can determine the severity of bone loss and assist in monitoring the response to treatment.

Preparing for the Exam

Do not take calcium or osteoporosis medications for 48 hours prior to the exam. Other tests that require barium or isotope injections may not be done on the same day. Please wear clothing with an elastic waistband. Do not wear jeans, belts, or other metallic decoration at the waist.

The Exam

The imaging test takes 15-30 minutes. It delivers less radiation than a standard chest x-ray.

Diagnostic Imaging - Bone Densitometry
2nd Floor Hunt Regional Medical Center Medical Pavilion
903-408-5005