Bone Mineral Density Assessment

Description

Bone mineral density provides a measure of the mineral content of your bones. The more dense the bone, the stronger and the less likely it is to break. There are several ways to measure bone density. The two most common areas measured are the spine and hip. Sometimes screening is done using a wrist or heel unit. Most tests use low-dose radiation to determine how dense the bone is. Bone density testing is most often done to test for osteoporosis. It is sometimes tested before spinal surgery to determine the bone’s density before putting in metal implants such as fusion cages or artificial discs. It should be noted that a bone density test is not the same as a bone scan.

Conditions Evaluated

Osteoporosis and osteopenia.

Before the Procedure

  • You will be asked to remove belts and all items from your pockets (you do not have to change into a gown).

During the Procedure

  • You will lie on your back. There are some testing devices that require you to lie on your side.
  • A small machine will pass over your low back. You may be repositioned for the scan of your hips.
  • The test takes less than 30 minutes.
  • You can drive yourself back home or to work after the scan.

After the Procedure

  • A doctor will read the information from the scan.
  • You will need to have an appointment with the doctor to discuss the results of the scan and treatment options if the bone density is low.

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