Bone Mineral Densitometry (BMD) is a scan which uses low energy x-rays to measure the density of your bone. It is used to diagnose osteoporosis and assess your fracture risk. It is also used to monitor your bone density which is especially useful if you are on treatment for osteoporosis. The usual regions scanned are your lower spine and hips although on occasions other areas such as the forearm may need to be scanned.

There is no special preparation required for a bone mineral densitometry scan.

Where possible, it is best to wear clothing with no metallic objects such as zips or metal buttons as this can affect the results of the scan. However if required, a gown will be provided before scanning.

It is recommended to bring along any previous bone mineral densitometry results that you have as any changes in your bone density can be assessed by comparing to your previous results.

Before the commencement of your scan, your height, weight and some medical history will be obtained. You will be asked to lie on a scanning bed. Usually the lower spine and both hips are scanned however this may vary depending on your clinical circumstances.

The total duration of your appointment will be approximately 20 minutes however the scanning time is around 5 minutes.

The radiation dose from a BMD scan is very low and is about one tenth of a dose from a chest x-ray.

When can I get my results?

Images obtained from your scan are digitally recorded. At Pure Healthcare, a subspecialty trained Radiologist interprets the images obtained and provides a report for your doctor within 24 hours.