What Is Bone Densitometry?
Bone Densitometry is a simple, painless, non-invasive test that takes
about 15 minutes.
A DEXA (Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry) machine is utilized to provide
a Bone Densitometry exam.
The bone density test measures bone mass, also
known as bone mineral density. By comparing your test results to a
database, healthcare providers can estimate bone strength and predict
potential for fractures.
In addition, this procedure uses up to
100 times less radiation than a CT Bone Density exam and is twice as
accurate.
Included
in your exam is the IVA (Instant Vertebral Assessment), a
specialized lateral (side) view of the spine. It reveals
existing vertebral deformities, compression fractures and more.
An existing spine fracture increases the risk of future spine
fractures five-fold and doubles the risk of hip fracture. The
addition of IVA to a DEXA scan increases the success of
diagnosis and is included in every DEXA study.
It is important
to know that your exam will
be performed by staff and radiologists who have received
additional certification from the ISCD
(International Society for Clinical Densitometry). DEXA
equipment at PENRAD Imaging has also been certified by the ISCD.
Why Test Your Bone Density?
Although women most commonly suffer from
Osteoporosis – The Silent Killer –
this disease strikes both men and women.
Bones that lose density and become
porous are weak and fragile. Without treatment, Osteoporosis can silently
advance until a bone breaks. By diagnosing Osteoporosis in the early stages,
your healthcare provider can start treatment that can prevent broken bones.
A Bone Densitometry test is the best diagnostic tool for early detection of
Osteoporosis. DEXA studies do not require a referral from a healthcare
provider – you may schedule your own appointment if you are over the age of
35.
Eight million American women and two million American men suffer from
Osteoporosis, and millions more have low bone density. One in two women and
one in eight men over age 50 will have an Osteoporosis-related fracture in
their lifetime. In the U.S. today, 10 million
individuals already suffer from this disease, and 18 million more have low
bone mass. No referral by a healthcare provider required ISCD certified
personnel and equipment.
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Bone Density Exams give
our patients the information needed for a proactive approach to
maintaining bone health and minimizing the devastating effects
of Osteoporosis.
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Doug R. Shaeffer, MD Director of PET/CT & Nuclear Medicine
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Exam Preparation
This procedure requires no injections or special preparations and
produces minimal radiation exposure. However, this 10 to 20 minute
test requires a two-piece outfit or hospital-style gown with no
metal buckles, buttons or zippers that could interfere with your
pictures.
In addition, you should not take any calcium-based
medications or supplements for 24 hours before the exam.
Please let
our appointment scheduler, technologist or radiologist know if you
are or suspect you may be pregnant.
In preparation for your test:
Wear clothing free of metal buckles, buttons, or zippers.
Do not take calcium based medications/supplements for 24 hours
before the exam.
During the Exam
You will be required to lie on your back on the exam table.
It is
extremely important that you lie still while your images are
acquired.
This exam only takes 15 minutes.
The technologist will re-position you in order to capture the
"IVA" (Instant Vertebral Assesment).
After the Exam
A computer-generated printout, including a detailed explanation,
is produced by the DEXA machine.
A Board Certified Radiologist will interpret your results and
provide a formal report for you and your
healthcare provider.
This information will assist your provider in
developing a treatment plan. The ultimate goal is to reduce fracture
risk and help prevent future broken bones.
Also, when repeated over
time, this test can help track the increase or decrease of bone
mass.
Our certified staff will review your Bone Density Exam with
you and also provide basic nutritional information.
Alert
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You must inform the technologist if you are, or think you
might be, pregnant. |
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No vitamins, calcium, mineral supplements, or bone building
prescriptions for 24 hours prior to exam. |
Further Information
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Brochure |
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Printable Bone Densitometry Brochure |
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If you do not have the most recent Reader installed on your
system, click the Adobe Acrobat Reader logo to the left. |
Feel free to contact our facility or check with your
healthcare provider for additional information. |
