Bone Densitometry

Bone Densitometry (for Men & Women)

Our BD software with a Fracture Risk Assessment Tool now allows us to calculate a 10 year probability of patients developing major osteoporotic fractures and hip fractures. This is most relevant for patients between 50-85 years not on treatment for osteoporosis.

The Procedure

Bone densitometry or dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) uses low-dose x-rays to measure the bone mineral density.

The areas that are assessed most commonly are the lumbar spine (lower back) and one of the hips. Occasionally the forearm or the whole body is assessed.

What happens on the day?

On the day of the examination eat normally and take your usual medication.

You will be asked to put on a gown or loosen your clothing such that all metalwork is removed from the area that is to be assessed.

You will be assisted onto the examination table and positioned correctly on your back.

The scan arm of the machine will move over your body taking the images. The machine will not touch you.

The technician will stay with you during the scan which takes less than 5 minutes to perform.

To determine which area should be scanned and to help with the interpretation of the scan, you will be asked to fill in a simple questionnaire, in addition to measuring your height and weight prior to the scan.

If you have any questions please ask the technician who performs the scan.

How long will it take?

The scan takes less than 5 minutes to perform but please allow yourself 20 minutes in total.