Bone Densitometry is a non-invasive procedure in which a patient’s bone mineral density (BMD) is measured and then compared against a normal population of people who are the same age, weight, and gender as the patient. It uses a very low energy x-ray beam to produce a "scan" of the lumbar spine, either hip, and/or either forearm.

Information gathered from this study is used to assess bone condition, risk of fracture, and to assist in deciding treatment options if necessary. If your patient is already undergoing treatment or therapy for osteoporosis or osteopenia, periodic follow up studies are recommended to assess changes in bone density.

Procedure

The study is performed by an x-ray technician and takes about 15-20 minutes to complete. Comfortable clothing should be worn such as sweat suits or soft cotton clothing. Metal objects such as belt buckles, rivets, snaps, zippers, and or buttons over the mid-abdomen or hip areas interfere with the scan and must be removed, along with shoes.

During the exam, the patien will lie quietly on a comfortable (well padded) scan table while a "C-Arm" (x-ray tube) moves over the area being scanned. Breathing is not suspended during the scan, but talking is discouraged while the C-Arm is in motion.

After The Exam

Once the chosen areas have been scanned satisfactorily the exam is complete and the patient is allowed to replace items and/or clothing that have been removed and leave.

The technician will apply the computer program to analyze the images that have been produced. The computer will print a copy of the scan and the analysis of the area that has been imaged.

A copy of the completed scanned images and the radiologist’s report will then be sent. The information gathered and the image scans are stored on the computer making it possible to do future studies and comparisons.

Bone Densitometry Locations

Holy Family Center
Sacred Heart Center
Spokane Valley Center