Bone Mineral Density Testing (DEXA Scan)
Care Before the Procedure
- Preparation:
- Discuss any medications, particularly calcium or vitamin D supplements, with your healthcare provider, as these may need to be paused.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing without metal objects (e.g., buttons, zippers) that could interfere with the scan.
- Health Disclosure:
- Inform the technician of any recent medical procedures or conditions that may affect the test.
Care During the Procedure
- You will lie still on the scanning table while the DEXA scanner moves over your body.
- The process is painless, and you may be asked to hold your breath briefly during the scan to minimise movement.
- Patient Experience:
- Most patients find the DEXA scan comfortable and quick, with no discomfort during the procedure.
- Minimal radiation exposure is involved, comparable to that of a standard X-ray.
Care After the Procedure
- Post-Procedure Care:
- There are no restrictions following the scan, and you can resume normal activities immediately.
- Results will typically be available within a few days.
- Results:
- BMD results are reported as T-scores and Z-scores:
- T-score: Compares your bone density with that of a healthy young adult. A score of -1.0 or higher is considered normal, between -1.0 and -2.5 indicates low bone density (osteopenia), and -2.5 or lower indicates osteoporosis.
- Z-score: Compares your bone density with that of others your age and sex.
- Results will be discussed with you by your healthcare provider, who will explain the implications for your bone health.
- BMD results are reported as T-scores and Z-scores:
- Follow-Up:
- Based on the results, your healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, medications, or additional testing.
- Regular follow-up scans might be recommended to monitor bone density over time.
- Note: Bone Mineral Density testing is a crucial tool for assessing bone health and preventing fractures. Following your healthcare provider’s instructions and recommendations is essential for optimal bone health management.
Eligibility
- BMD testing is commonly recommended for:
- Women aged 65 and older and men aged 70 and older.
- Individuals with risk factors for osteoporosis (e.g., family history, prolonged corticosteroid use, low body weight).
- Postmenopausal women under 65 with additional risk factors.
- People with conditions or treatments known to affect bone health (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, cancer therapies).
- Contraindications:
- Pregnancy (due to radiation exposure).
- Recent barium studies or nuclear medicine scans (may affect results).
- Preparation:
- Discuss any medications, particularly calcium or vitamin D supplements, with your healthcare provider, as these may need to be paused.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing without metal objects (e.g., buttons, zippers) that could interfere with the scan.
- Health Disclosure:
- Inform the technician of any recent medical procedures or conditions that may affect the test.
More from KIMSHEALTH
