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Osteoporosis is a degenerative process that lowers bone density and causes brittle bones. Over half of all women over 60 suffer from osteoporotic fractures, but the first many know about it is when the fracture actually occurs. Detected early, osteoporosis is treatable.
A simple bone density test of the spine and the hip, on Auckland Radiology's DEXA bone densitometry equipment, will determine whether you are at risk for fractures.
The following are frequently asked questions about bone densitometry. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please contact your doctor, or an Auckland Radiology Group specialist.
What causes Osteoporosis?
Bone is living tissue that is constantly being broken down and reformed. As a person grows, bone forms faster than it breaks down until it reaches a peak bone mass between the ages of 25 and 35. After age 35, both men and women lose bone at a greater rate than it forms, causing bone loss. Women after menopause start to lose bone at a much more rapid rate than men of the same age. This rapid bone loss is usually due to the decrease in the production of the estrogen hormone. As bone density is lost, the bones become porous and brittle.
Why is Bone Density Testing available?
Bone density tests are the most practical way to accurately measure the density of your bones. The examination estimates the amount of bone mineral content in specific areas of your body, including the spine and the hip. When bone density tests are repeated over time, they can help your doctor track your rate of bone loss.
How is the Bone Density Test done?
You will be asked to lie perfectly still during the test. An arm will pass over the region of your body being measured. A dual-energy beam of x-ray passes through your body and is measured by a detector in the arm. This technology is called Dual-Energy X-ray Absorpitometry or DEXA. The EclipseTM bone densitometer works by measuring the amount of x-rays that are absorbed by the bones in your body. The two x-ray energies allow the machine to tell the difference between bone and soft tissue, giving a very accurate estimation of bone density.
How long does the exam take?
Please allow 15-30 minutes for your scheduled appointment.
Are there any special preparations required?
There are no special preparations necessary for a bone density test. You will be required to remove any garment with buttons or metal content. Patients should always inform the technologist if there is any chance of pregnancy.
How much radiation is involved?
The amount of radiation from a typical bone density test is only a fraction of that received from a standard chest xray. Or, in other words, it is comparable to the amount received on a transcontinental air flight. However, patients should always inform the technologist if there is any chance of pregnancy.
Where is Bone Densitometry available?
Auckland Radiology Group has DEXA bone densitometry available at 3 locations.
REMUERA
101 Remuera Rd
PH: 529 4850
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HENDERSON
57 Lincoln Road
PH: 836 2040 |
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HOWICK
18 Fencible Drive
PH: 535 6084 |
How do I arrange a Bone Density?
Ask your doctor for a referral to Auckland Radiology Group.
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