Perhaps it was a fall. Perhaps osteoporosis is becoming an issue. Now, you have been ordered to get a bone density scan. The best place to get this x-ray done is at Hollywood Diagnosticss Center in South Florida. There are many services offered at the Diagnosticss center, but this blog will explain bone density scans.
What is a Bone Density Scan?
A bone density scan (also referred to as DEXA), is a specialized form of x-ray technology that is used to measure bone mineral density. It is non-invasive and painless. A bone density scan is most often recommended in diagnosing osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is a condition that involves a gradual loss of calcium which can cause the bones to become more fragile and more likely to break. Besides helping to diagnose osteoporosis, a bone density scan can assess an individual’s risk for developing fractures.
Getting Ready for the Test
If you are taking calcium supplements, do not take them for 24 hours before your scan. Wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day of the scan. Try to avoid clothing with zippers or belts. Prior to the examination, the technologist will assist you in lying down on the table. An imaging device or detector will be positioned over your body in order to measure the bone density in your hips and spine. The detector will slowly pass over the areas being examined. In order to transmit clear images to the computer, you will be asked to lie very still.
The study takes about 10-15 minutes to complete. The computer images will be reviewed by a board-certified radiologist and the results sent to your healthcare provider.
If you find that you need a bone density scan, you are in good hands. Any medical imaging exam can cause worrisome feelings before and after the test. At Hollywood Diagnosticss Center, our team of dedicated, compassionate technologists want to make the experience as pleasant and stress-free as possible.
We have the latest technology and technologists who care, so you can depend on us to meet your imaging needs. To learn more about our services or schedule an appointment, contact our center today.