Bone densitometry, often called bone density testing, is a screening exam for osteoporosis. The exam measures bone mineral density, or bone mass, and compares the results with a reference population of similar age, gender, and racial background. This information helps your physician determine if you need to take any specific steps to protect the health of your bones, and provides a baseline measure to monitor your bone mass over time.

Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become fragile and increases the likelihood of bone fractures. The disease poses a threat to more than 28 million people in the United States, causing 1.5 million fractures of the vertebrae, hips and wrists each year. For women, who comprise 80% of those diagnosed with the disease, this means one in two will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime.

Contributing to these numbers is the fact that individuals with osteoporosis don't normally experience symptoms. Bone loss occurs slowly over time as bone become brittle. A broken bone or collapsed vertebrae is often the first sign of osteoporosis.

To learn more about osteoporosis and bone health, visit the National Osteoporosis Foundation.

Risk factors for osteoporosis include:

•  Small, thin frame
•  Family history of osteoporosis
•  Fractures after age 50
•  Height loss
•  Low calcium and vitamin D intake
•  Use of tobacco and alcohol
•  Lack of weight-bearing exercise
•  Prolonged use of steroids
•  Early menopause
•  Post menopause

Having a bone density exam is an essential step in protecting yourself from the potentially devastating affects of osteoporosis. Your physician will help you determine if you should be tested.

•  All women over the age of 65
•  All postmenopausal women under 65 with any risk factors
•  Woman who have gone through early menopause
•  Women over 50 who are not on estrogen
•  Older individuals with a family history of osteoporosis

Minneapolis Radiology uses a specific bone density exam called DEXA (dual energy x-ray absorptiometry), considered the most precise and accurate technique for measuring bone mass. Similar to an x-ray, it produces images of specific bones to assess the levels of bone minerals present. The exam, which takes just a few minutes, is performed by a technologist trained in bone densitometry. During the exam, you will lie on a table as a scanner passes above you, capturing images and transmitting data to a computer for analysis. The exam is simple, painless and noninvasive.

While DEXA is considered a safe examination, you will be exposed to a very small amount of radiation, equivalent to less than one-tenth the dosage of a chest x-ray.

Most bone density exams are completed in approximately 20 minutes.

On the day of the exam, do not take calcium supplements, including multivitamins or antacids. It is also recommended that you wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing to your appointment.

The results of your bone density exam will be sent directly to your physician who will share the results with you. To request a copy of the report, contact your physician’s office.

Minneapolis Radiology contracts with most major health plans and will submit claims for non-contracted plans as a courtesy for our patients.

If you would like to have a bone density exam, discuss it with your physician. Your physician's office will provide you with the necessary referral and contact Minneapolis Radiology to schedule your appointment.