What is Bone Density?

            Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) is an imaging technology that uses a very low amount of X-ray energy to detect the presence of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease that gradually weakens bones, leading to bone fragility and an increased chance of fractures to the spine, hips and wrists. This weakening may be due to aging or caused by other risk factors that combine with age. Often called the "silent disease," osteoporosis rarely shows symptoms until a lot of bone mass has been lost. The most visible symptoms may include loss of height along with curvature of the upper back.

            DEXA scanning can identify low bone density in patients at an early stage, enabling doctors to prescribe appropriate treatment before the condition worsens. Images of the lower spine and hips are most often used in checking for osteoporosis. The test results are then read thoroughly and interpreted by our radiologists.

Who Needs Bone Density Testing?

            While the disease affects both men and women, 80% of those affected are women. In fact, an estimated 8 million Americans have osteoporosis and an additional 27 million will have low bone mass. Women have a higher risk for osteoporosis than men because women often have smaller, thinner frames. In addition, menopause causes women to produce less estrogen, a hormone that helps protect them against bone loss; 20% of bone mass can be lost in the 5-7 years following menopause.

            If you're nearing menopause, your doctor or healthcare professional can give you good advice to help you avoid future problems with osteoporosis. If you are post-menopausal, stay in touch with your doctor to monitor your bone health on a regular basis. If you don't know if you have osteoporosis, ask whether a bone density test is right for you. Your doctor will need to refer you for this exam. For your convenience, Bone Density exams can be scheduled along with your mammogram appointment at our facility.

Factors that may add to the risk of osteoporosis include:

• Female
• Caucasian or Asian
• Advanced age
• History of bone fracture
• Small, thin frame
• Family history of osteoporosis
• Post menopause, including early or surgically induced
• Low calcium diet
• Lack of exercise
• Eating disorders
• Abnormal absence of menstrual periods
• Certain medicines (such as steroids and anticonvulsants)
• Alcohol or tobacco use

How do I prepare for a bone density test?

        Wear comfortable clothing that has no metal zippers or buttons from the waist down. If you do not have clothing without metal components, we may ask you to change into a gown or scrubs.  If you have recently undergone a barium study of any kind -such as an upper gastrointestinal (UGI) tract exam, barium enema or computed tomography (CT) scan -you should wait at least 14 days before a DEXA exam is performed. That waiting period is important to prevent any residual barium from interfering with your DEXA exam. Please let us know before your exam begins if you may be pregnant.

What should I expect?

     You will be asked to lie on your back on a padded table while a movable arm passes over your body. A technician will remain with you and you will feel no sensations from the exam, which typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.

What do test results mean?

     The test compares your bone mineral density (BMD) to that of a "young adult" at peak bone strength and to people of your same age, called "age-matched". The difference between your result and that of a "young adult" is given as a T-score. This information, along with other factors, helps doctors in making a diagnosis. The following T-scores define the amount of bone loss:

• Normal: T-score above -1
• Osteopenic (low bone density): T-score between -1 and -2.5
• Osteoporosis: T-score below -2.5Your test results combined with other factors give you and your doctor an overall risk of fracture. Knowing your risk of a fracture is important, because there are many ways to prevent osteoporosis and to reduce fracture risks. After reviewing your DEXA Scan results your doctor may suggest a number of steps important in building bone strength. Suggestions may include: exercise, changes in diet, hormone therapy, or other medicines known to improve bone strength.

Your test results will be forwarded to your referring physician for your records.  Your referring physician will be your point of contact for your results.