Bone Density Scan (DEXA)
This non-invasive test is performed using advanced DEXA equipment to identify potential bone mineral loss or osteoporosis. Our Digital Bone Scanner uses a unique pencil beam targeted X-ray, which means our patients are only exposed to the minimum amount of radiation necessary to perform this screening. You simply lie down while a small beam passes over you.
Digital Bone Density Scan (DEXA)
Bone Densitometry
Bone density scanning, also called DEXA (dual-energy x-ray absorptimetry), is an enhanced form of x-ray technology that is used to measure bone loss. DEXA is today’s established standard for measuring bone mineral density (BMD). It is estimated that 1 in 3 women over the age of 50 worldwide have osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is responsible for millions of fractures annually mostly involving the lumbar vertebrae, hip, and wrist.
A Bone Densitometry Scanner is used to detect osteoporosis. Women’s Healthcare Imaging has state-of-the-art densitometry equipment that is operated by registered radiologic technologists. A bone density scan takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes to complete. A routine scan is done of the spine and hip. It is a painless test that requires little to no advanced preparation.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a crippling disease which is growing in numbers each year. It is known as the “silent stalker” because there may be no symptoms until a fracture occurs and a diagnosis is then made. The word osteoporosis means “porous bones”. This disease causes bones to weaken by the loss of minerals, especially calcium.
Veterbral Fracture Assessment
Women’s Healthcare Imaging has capability to do Vertebral Fracture Assessments. It’s a low radiation dose high resolution Bone Densitometry examination that can assess Vertebral Fractures and Vertebral Deformities in its early stage. This enables Physicians to use drug therapy to reduce the possibility of new Vertebral Fractures by up to 50%. Osteoporosis is treatable and preventable. Early diagnosis, therapeutic intervention, and the use of bone density testing greatly improves the prognosis for patients.
Risk Factors for Osteoporosis
Certain factors are more likely to develop osteoporosis. In women, the cessation of estrogen production at menopause induces an acceleration of bone loss. There are a number of risk factors that can lead to osteoporosis.
Here are a few: