Our services
Bone Mineral Densitometry
A Bone Mineral Densitometry (BMD) scan is a special type of x-ray that measures bone mineral density.
It provides information about bone strength or fragility and the risk of fractures or broken bones. The higher the density, generally, the lower the risk of fracture.
What is Bone Densitometry?
Bone densitometry (or DEXA) is an enhanced form of x-ray technology that measures bone mineral density and determines the strength of your bones.
Certain medical conditions, medications and aging can lead to a loss of bone density and osteoporosis. With a loss of bone density, bones become thinner, more fragile and more likely to break.
Your doctor may want to establish a baseline bone density to determine whether you need treatment with medication.
DEXA is most often performed on the lower spine and hips.
Why is Bone Densitometry done?
These types of bone scans aid in the detection of osteoporosis, which is a condition where bones become fragile and brittle leading to a higher risk of fractures or breaks.
The risk of osteoporosis increases with age. In fact, 1 in 2 women and 1 in 3 men over the age of 60 are at risk of an osteoporotic fracture (www.osteoporosis. org.au). However, osteoporosis can be both preventable and treatable, particularly when bone loss is detected at the earliest possible stage.
About Your Test
Before your appointment
No specific preparation is required for a BMD scan.
Please be sure to have a current referral from your doctor, and bring any relevant films or reports to assist our radiologists in making the most accurate diagnosis.
Please bring your Medicare, Concession or Department of Veterans Affairs card with you to your appointment.
If you are pregnant (or have reason to believe you may be) please inform your doctor and our staff at that time of booking.
On the day
Upon arrival, your height and weight will be measured. This allows the computer to generate information about your bone density.
You will be asked to lie on the examination table. BMD is a quick, non-invasive and painless procedure and no discomfort should be experienced.
As any condition affecting bone density tends to affect the whole skeleton, a snapshot of a few sites is sufficient to establish the overall bone density.
The BMD at the hip and spine has been shown to be the best way of predicting the risk of fracture.
After your appointment
There are no after effects of a BMD scan.
One of our radiologists will interpret the scan and provide your referring doctor with a comprehensive report about the findings.
The results of your scan will be sent directly to your referring doctor, and it is very important you book a timely follow-up appointment to discuss your results.
Frequently Asked Questions
There is no preparation needed and there are no after effects. Depending on the body part being examined, you may be required to wear a provided gown. We also request removal of jewellery and body piercing items which may be in the field of view. This makes interpretation of the images more accurate.
At Apex Radiology practices we use the newest digital equipment for our X-rays. This means you can be sure you are receiving the lowest amount of radiation possible.
The radiation levels used in Digital General X-ray are so low that there is little to no health effects.
Our friendly radiography team will clearly explain what you have to do during the appointment. You may be asked to hold your breath for the x-ray or stay in a certain position, but you will be guided through the process.
Prior to your scan and to ensure optimal imaging, you may be asked to change into a gown. A change cubicle will be provided to ensure your privacy and you will be asked to bring your belongings will you, carry baskets are provided. You will be asked to place your belongings in a suitable location within the room for the duration of your scan. After your scan, you will be provided with a change cubicle to ensure your privacy. Please ensure you have all your belongings with you prior to leaving the department. If you accidentally leave anything behind, please contact our staff to advise and we will endeavour to locate your belongings and return them to you.
The entire procedure takes approximately 15-20 minutes to complete, although real scanning time is only 2-3 minutes.
Your images and report are provided through a secure online system to your doctor or healthcare provider. We will also provide you with a printed copy to bring to your next appointment.
Our friendly reception staff will advise you on the cost of your procedure at the time of your booking. If your exam is Medicare eligible, you will be bulk billed.
Patient Safety
A BMD scan does involve a very small dose of radiation, which makes this test unsuitable for women who are, or might be pregnant.
The benefits of a BMD scan out outweigh the potential risks involved.