Bone Density

Osteoporosis is a disease in which bone density decreases, making bones brittle and prone to fractures. The National Osteoporosis Foundation estimates 55% of people age 50 and over in the United States have osteoporosis or low bone mass. Of these, more than 14 million men and 30 million women are affected by this condition.

Osteoporosis is treatable and preventable. Early diagnosis, therapeutic intervention and the use of bone density testing to diagnose and monitor response to therapy have greatly improved the outlook for patients.

DEXA is a reliable test to detect early stages of bone loss (called osteopenia). The results are reproducible, allowing measurements to be taken over time in order to monitor progression of disease or improvement in bone density due to treatment.

PATIENT PREPARATION FOR DEXA

Please adhere to following instructions for a successful DEXA scan:

• Do not take calcium supplements 24 hours prior to exam
• Eat/drink normally
• Notify your physician if you are pregnant
• Wear warm, comfortable clothing (preferably without metal snaps or zippers)
• Do not wear jewelry

WHAT TO EXPECT

You may be asked to change clothing; scrubs or gowns are provided.

You will be asked to lie down on the padded imaging table; once comfortably positioned, you will be asked to lie as still as possible while the system uses a lose dose of X-Ray to scan one or more areas of bone, usually the lower spine and hips). The technologist will instruct you throughout the exam.

DEXA scan times are approximately 20 minutes.

The images will be evaluated by the Radiologist and a complete report sent to the ordering physician; your physician will review the results with you.