Bone Densitometry Testing

	Watch Breast Cancer Information Video
Multi-media Library

Following a comprehensive medical assessment, your doctor may recommend that you have your bone mass measured. Bone mineral density (BMD) tests measure bone density in the spine, wrist, and/or hip (the most common sites of fractures due to osteoporosis), while others measure bone in the heel or hand. These tests are painless, noninvasive, and safe. Bone density tests can:

• Detect low bone density before a fracture occurs.
• Confirm a diagnosis of osteoporosis if you have already fractured
• Predict your chances of fracturing in the future
• Determine your rate of bone loss and/or monitor the effects of treatment if the test is conducted at intervals of a year or more.

To detect for signs of osteoporosis accurately, doctors use a special kind of x-ray technology called dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, or DEXA.

DEXA is a short painless procedure that measures bone mineral density (BMD) of the lower spine and hips.

A DEXA procedure can be performed in about 20 minutes.

The results of the test will be interpreted by a radiologist who will discuss the findings with your primary care physician.