Bone Density
Bone density scanning, also called dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), is an enhanced form of x-ray technology that measures bone mineral density and can determine if you have osteoporosis. Osteoporosis often affects women after menopause but may also be found in men. Often called the "silent disease", osteoporosis symptoms are rarely evident until bone has been lost.
What is Bone Density
The bone densitometer uses small amounts of X-ray to produce images of the spine, hip or even the whole body. The spine and hip are measured because they are where osteoporotic fractures most often occur. The X-Ray is composed of two energy levels that are absorbed differently by bones. A computer is able to determine from these differences how much bone mineral is present.
The bone densitometer measures your bone mineral density (BMD) and compares your measurements to a reference group based on your age, weight, sex, and ethnic background. This information will be used in making a diagnosis about your bone status and risk of fracture.
Who is it For?
It is recommended that you get a baseline T-score between the ages of 30 and 40. When measured at a variety of body areas, low bone mass is the most accurate predictor of high fracture risk. When your healthcare provider has information from two areas of the body that are prone to fracture, the diagnosis can be more accurate and the treatment more specific. Your healthcare provider can offer advice about diet, lifestyle and medication based on your T-score. Treatments are available to increase your bone density and slow the rate of loss.
Scheduling a Procedure
Midwest Radiology maintains dedicated scheduling resources for all outpatient imaging center locations. We offer same-day scheduling and accept most forms of medical insurance. Call us today!
Locations
Our outpatient imaging services are provided through a network of imaging clinics conveniently located throughout the Twin Cities area. We offer top-quality imaging services that generate high-resolution imagery using state-of-the-art medical imaging equipment.
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Our Physicians
Qualified, caring, honored, and committed ─ the best of Midwest Radiology. Our radiologists are board certified by the American Board of Radiology and have extensive training and expertise in medical imaging. They are dedicated to providing the highest level of quality imaging services to all patients and healthcare providers.