Bone Density (DEXA Scan)
Bone density scanning, also known as bone densitometry or a DEXA scan, is a noninvasive procedure used to determine the extent of bone loss and assess a patient’s risk of osteoporosis by measuring bone mineral density. It is most commonly performed on the lower spine and hips and allows patients to take preventive measures against osteoporosis before they experience a broken bone.
At Carteret Comprehensive Medical Care, PC, we use DEXA (Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry) technology for our bone densitometry exams. DEXA is an enhanced X-ray image that provides the most accurate measurements of bone density currently available by using low dose radiation. When used over time, DEXA can detect even the smallest gain or loss in bone density to help detect or diagnose conditions such as osteoporosis.
This procedure may also be performed in conjunction with an assessment of vertebral deformity, as many patients with an increased risk of developing osteoporosis are prone to vertebral fractures. A vertebral deformity assessment is also performed using DEXA technology and allows the radiologist to determine potential fracture areas.
Who is this procedure for?
A bone densitometry exam is recommended on a regular basis for women over the age of 65, or anyone over the age of 60 with an increased risk of osteoporosis, including those who:
- Have a family history of the disease
- Have a slender build
- Are female
- Are post-menopausal
- Lead a sedentary life
- Take medications such as bone thinners or steroids
- Have certain illnesses
The risk of osteoporosis increases with age, as our bone density peaks in our mid-30s and then continues to weaken and lose mass over time. Bone densitometry exams may be recommended once every two years or less often, depending on your doctor’s orders after evaluating your condition. There must be enough time in between exams for changes in the bone to be noticeable.
Benefits of Bone Densitometry
Bone densitometry is a simple, noninvasive procedure with no major risks and no need for anesthesia. Only a very small amount of radiation is used during this procedure, which will not affect the patient over a series of exams. It is considered the standard procedure for evaluating a patient’s risk of osteoporosis. After the risk of osteoporosis and related fractures is determined, patients can take certain precautions to reduce their risk of fracture and keep bones as strong and healthy as possible.
Bone Densitometry Procedure
During the bone densitometry procedure, the patient lies on a padded table with an X-ray generator below and an imaging device above. The targeted area is positioned in order to achieve ideal results, before the imaging device is passed over the area to produce images that appear on a computer monitor. Using DEXA technology, the imaging device sends low-dose beams with two energy peaks that examine soft tissue and bone. The soft tissue results are then subtracted from the total to determine the patient’s bone mineral density. There is no special preparation needed before this exam.
The procedure takes about 10 to 30 minutes to perform, depending on the size of the targeted area. The results are visible after just a few minutes and can be discussed with the patient then or analyzed at a later date. There is no pain associated with this procedure, and patients are able to return home and resume their regular activities immediately after.
Bone Densitometry Safety
There are no major complications or side effects associated with the bone densitometry procedure. However, it is important to note that this exam cannot predict when or where a fracture may occur; it can only determine a patient’s risk of fracture.
