Bone Densitometry

It is a medical condition in which the bones become brittle and fragile from loss of tissue, typically as a result of hormonal changes, or deficiency of calcium or vitamin D.

National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends:

• Get the daily amount of calcium you need from food first & supplement only as needed to make up for any shortfall.
• If you get enough calcium from food, no need to take the supplement. Taking unnecessary supplements increases the risk of heart attack by 30%.

This test takes about 10 to 15 minutes. It measures the bone loss in your hips and spine. It also helps your doctor determine how quickly you are losing bone mass as well as predict your risk of fracture. The test is also used to follow the course of the disease and monitor the effects of various treatments.

• Tests the bone strength & its ability to bear weight
• Quick, painless and minimal radiation exposure

• -Daily requirement in adults (NOF):-
  Under age 50:- 400-800 IU/day
  50 and older:- 800-1000 IU/day
• Sources: Sunlight 30-40 mins. (4 – 6 times/week)
• Diet: Mushrooms, fortified juices, fish, cheese
• Check if You Are Prone To Osteoporosis:
  You are at a higher risk of osteoporosis if you-
• Are aged >/= 65
• Are Asian
• Have low body weight (BMI </= 20 wt < 63kg)
• Have family history of osteoporosis
• Have fracture history
• Are on long term steroid use (>3 months use)
• Are a current smoker
• Take alcohol > 2-3 drinks per day
• Have Estrogen deficiency at early age (<45 yrs.)
• Have low Calcium intake lifelong &/or Vitamin D deficiency
• Have sedentary lifestyle

• You do not have to change your daily routine before this test eat, drink, and take your medicines as you normally would.
• Do not take any calcium supplements for 24–48 hours before your bone densitometry test.
• Avoid wearing metal jewellery or clothes with metal parts like buttons & buckles. 
• If you think you might be pregnant notify your doctor.

Note:-

• The radiation exposure in DEXA scan is very minimal, 1/10^th amount of radiation emitted during chest X-Ray.
• It cannot be done in pregnant woman.

You must wear a comfortable dress, and you will be asked to lie on your back while the technologist performs the test. No needles or injections are involved. The DEXA procedure is similar to having a standard X-ray The amount of radiation used is very small.

Generally, you can resume your usual activities immediately. The results of your test will be reviewed by a specially trained technologist and certified doctors. Your test results will be provided to you to discuss with your doctor