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Overview
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As we age, many adults lose bone density. When that happens, bones become more porous and weaken making them more susceptible to fractures. This condition is commonly referred to as Osteoporosis. In the United States 55 percent of adults over 50, nearly 44 million people, are affected by the disease. Bone densitometry is the most accurate way to measure bone density and diagnose Osteoporosis.
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(1) General Electric Prodigy Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry bone densitometry scanner located at Oregon Imaging University Center. This scanner has a 350 lbs maximum table weight limit
(1) General Electric iDEXA Dual Energy X-ray Absorpitometry bone densitometry scanner located at Oregon Imaging RiverBend Center. This scanner has a 450 lbs maximum table weight limit.
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Prep
- On the day of your exam, wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes such as pants with an elastic waist.
- Avoid wearing clothes with buttons, zippers and belts, which may interfere with the scanner.
- Do not take calcium supplements the day before or the day of your DEXA scan.
- On the day of your appointment, please bring a list of medications you are currently taking
- Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your exam for registration, and bring your health insurance information to your appointment.
Safety
- Because of the risk of radiation exposure to the fetus, pregnant women are advised to avoid this procedure.
- Scanner at University Center has a 350 lbs maximum table weight.
- Scanner at RiverBend Center has a 450 lbs maximum table weight.
- DEXA studies cannot be scheduled for seven days following imaging studies performed with contrast, such as nuclear medicine studies, barium enema, upper GI, IVP, CT or MRI.
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During a DEXA scan, you will lie fully clothed on a cushioned table. A technologist will be present to operate the scanner and assist you. DEXA scans are painless and require no injections, invasive procedures or sedation. The technologist may place special pads underneath or along your body to ensure proper positioning and comfort.
You will be asked to lie still for several minutes while the arm of the DEXA scanner passes over your body. You may hear a low humming noise during the scan. When the scan is complete, the technologist will help you off the table.
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- A radiologist, specially trained to interpret bone density scans, will review your images.
- A diagnostic report will be sent to your physician, usually two to five days after your appointment.
- Your physician will consider the radiologist's interpretation of your scan in the context of your overall care.
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Bone density studies are used to determine if a patient has low bone mineral density, which causes bones to weaken and have greater risk of fracture.
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