Table of Contents:
- What is bone densitometry?
- What does bone densitometry consist of?
- Why is bone densitometry performed?
- What to expect during a DEXA/DXA scan?
What is bone densitometry?
Bone densitometry refers to special scanning techniques used to visualize bone structure and to analyze bone mineral density (BMD). Unlike other X-ray techniques, bone densitometry emphasizes bone mass density in a shorter scanning time and with more accurate results, allowing physicians to monitor bone loss in patients. The standard method of bone densitometry is dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA/DXA).
What is bone densitometry?
Densitometry involves emitting small bursts of radiation that pass through the patient to create an image of the inside of the patient’s body. The bones absorb some of this radiation, and the amount absorbed shows the density of the bones, which will be visible on the image.
The main use of DEXA is to diagnose and monitor the progression and/or treatment of osteoporosis.
Early densitometry techniques, such as single photon absorptiometry and later dual photon absorptiometry, use iodine-125 and gadolinium-153 respectively, while modern DEXA/DXA scans use low intensity X-rays.
Why is bone densitometry performed?
The primary use of DEXA is to diagnose and monitor the progression and/or treatment of osteoporosis. Our own body is constantly destroying and re-forming bone, but as we age it breaks down rather than forms, and various diseases or circumstances can increase the rate of bone breakdown. Osteoporosis is the result of this, a disease in which the hollow spaces in the bones become wider and, as a result, the bones become more brittle.
What to expect during a DEXA/DXA scan?
Densitometry scans are quick and painless. The patient usually lies on a table with the X-ray generator underneath.
Patients will be asked to lie still and hold their breath for a few seconds if the torso is scanned to avoid blurring the images. Patients may need follow-up examinations months or years later to monitor their progress. The trauma specialist is the one who will follow up for abnormalities.