Bone Density Test Health Article

Description

To take a DEXA bone density scan, the patient lies on a bed underneath the scanner, a curving plastic arm that emits x rays. These low-dose x rays form a fan beam that rotates around the patient. During the test, the scanner moves to capture images of the patient's spine, hip or entire body. A computer then compares the patient's bone strength and risk of fracture to that of other people in the United States at the same age and to young people at peak bone density. Bones reach peak density at age 30 and then start to lose mass. The test takes about 20 minutes to do and is painless. The DEXA bone scan costs about $250. Some insurance companies and Medicare cover the cost. pDEXA wrist bone scans in drugstores are available for about $30.

Preparation

The patient puts on a hospital gown and lies on the bed underneath the scanner. Not all doctors routinely schedule this test. If the following factors apply to a patient, they may need a bone density scan and can discuss this with their doctor. The patient:

• is at risk for osteoporosis
• is near menopause
• has broken a bone after a modest trauma
• has a family history of osteoporosis
• uses steroid or antiseizure medications

• has had a period of restricted mobility for more than six months

Risks

The DEXA bone scan exposes the patient to only a small amount of radiation—about one-fiftieth that of a chest x ray, or about the amount you get from taking a cross-country airplane flight.