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Medical Services > Radiology Services > Diagnostic Radiology > Bone Density Testing
Bone Density Testing – Detecting Osteoporosis
What is a bone density test?
A bone mineral density test measures bone strength and quality. It can detect as little as one to three percent bone loss with one-tenth the radiation exposure of a chest x-ray. (As comparison, a general x-ray is unable to detect osteoporosis until bone loss reaches 30 percent.)
The test, also called DEXA or dual-energy x-ray absorptimetry, measures the spine and hips. It is usually performed around the time of menopause.
Why would I need a bone density test?
A bone density test is used to diagnose osteoporosis and evaluate risk for fracture. This allows for prevention and early treatment of bone loss. Periodic testing helps the physician track the success of treatment and allows for adjustments before symptoms develop.
What to Expect
A complete bone density study usually consists of measurement at two sites — the lower spine and hip. A specialized x-ray tube passes over the body and takes measurements.
The test takes about 20 minutes. The initial test is used as a reference for comparison with future measurements.
Understanding Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition causing bones to become weak and brittle. This can lead to fractures of the spine, hip, ankle and wrist from simple falls that would not impact people with healthy bones. Collapsed vertebrae due to osteoporosis can result in severe back pain, loss of height and stooped posture or other spinal deformities.
Osteoporosis most commonly appears in women in the first five to ten years following menopause, and advances with age.
Osteoporosis doesn’t usually produce symptoms until a fracture occurs, often resulting from a fall.
Women who are, or think they may be, pregnant should not have any type of bone density exam.
Bone density testing is among Greenwich Hospital’s broad range of diagnostic and interventional radiology services.
Radiology services are generally pain-free, non-invasive and available to both outpatients and inpatients.
Bone density exams are performed at Greenwich Hospital’s Diagnostic Imaging Center, located at 2015 West Main Street in Stamford. See directions.
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