![]() A score of -2.5 and below is classified as osteoporosis. A score of -1.1 and -2.4 is categorized as low bone mass (osteopenia). A score of -1 and above is thought to be normal. It compares the amount of bone you have to a young adult of the same gender with peak bone mass. This number is used to predict your risk of developing a fracture, and to determine whether treatment is needed. There will be two scores indicated on your test results: T score The radiologist will interpret the images and send a report to your doctor, who will review the results with you. Bone density measurements taken with different equipment cannot be compared directly. Follow-up DEXA tests should be performed at the same place and ideally with the same machine.For those who have a spinal deformity or have had previous spinal surgery, DEXA use is limited since vertebral compression fractures or osteoarthritis can interfere with the accuracy of the test.While a DEXA scan cannot predict who will experience a fracture, it assesses your relative risk and is used to determine whether you will need treatment.Some common limitations of a bone density test include: What are the limitations of a bone density scan? Stay very still as the test is being done - you may be asked to hold your breath. The data will then be converted and displayed on a monitor. The detector (imaging device) will be positioned above your body. The scanner will move over specific areas of your body, using low-dose X-Rays located below your body to send data to a computer. You’ll be asked to lie on the exam table, then our technologist will place you in the correct position so the appropriate scans can be done. This quick scan typically takes about 20 minutes, depending on the number of areas that need to be tested. What will happen during my bone density scan? You may be asked to wear a gown.įor at least 12 hours before your exam, do not take calcium supplements. If you can, wear a sports bra - and avoid wearing a bra with hooks or underwires. Avoid wearing shirts that have designs or buttons. Wear pants with no metal, buttons or zippers, but they should have a waistband. Remove all jewellery and other accessories in the area to be scanned and wear loose, comfortable clothing. Bring a list of any medications you’re currently taking. Please arrive at our clinic 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time so you’ll have time complete the examination questionnaire. If there is a possibility you may be pregnant, or if you’ve recently received an injection of contrast material for a radioisotope scan or CT scan, let your doctor know as they may have you wait a few days before scheduling this test. Eat as you normally would on the day of your exam. How should I prepare for a bone density scan?Ī bone density scan requires little to no special preparation. Are a man with clinical conditions related to bone loss, such as chronic liver or kidney disease or rheumatoid arthritis.Have a personal or maternal history of smoking or hip fracture.Have a parathyroid condition such as hyperparathyroidism.Have a thyroid condition such as hyperthyroidism.Use medications known to cause bone loss.Have type 1 (formerly known as insulin-dependent or juvenile) diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease or a family history of osteoporosis.Have had a fractured bone after only mild trauma.Have X-Ray evidence of vertebral fracture or other symptoms of osteoporosis.Are a tall post-menopausal woman (over 5 feet 7 inches) or thin (less than 125 pounds).Are not taking estrogen and are a woman who is post-menopausal.We strongly recommend bone density testing if you: We can also use these scans to monitor the impact of treatment for osteoporosis and other conditions that result in bone loss. The condition increases your risk of bone fragility and fracture. Osteoporosis is defined by gradual structural changes to your bones, thinning bones and bone loss. Women are most often affected by this condition post-menopause, but it is also sometimes found in men and rarely in children. The DEXA scan is the most commonly used and the most standard method for diagnosing osteoporosis. The test involves minimal exposure to ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of your body to measure bone loss. If these can’t be tested, the radiologist can scan your forearm. ![]() This safe, non-invasive and painless scan typically focuses on the spine and hip. Risk of fracture is influenced by factors including body weight, age, history of previous fractures, family history of osteoporotic fractures and lifestyle such as excessive alcohol consumption and smoking. The most commonly used test is the dual-energy X-Ray absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA), which assesses bone health and your risk of fracture as a result of osteoporosis. By measuring your bone density - how strong your bones are - we can tell whether you have osteoporosis.
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