Bone Density
What is a Bone Density Scan?
Bone Density Scans use a type of low dose X-ray radiation targeted to the lower spine and hips. Instead of using X-rays to produce images, the scanner measures the amount of radiation that is absorbed by the body.
The machine sends a thin, invisible beam of radiation with two distinct energy peaks through the bones being examined. One peak is absorbed mainly by soft tissue and the other by bone. The soft tissue amount can be subtracted from the total, and what remains is a patient’s bone mineral density or T-score. Dense bone has a positive T-score and bone that is less dense has a negative T-score.
Why Did My Doctor Order an Bone Density Scan?
Most bone density scans are performed as a biannual screening exam to measure bone loss. The scans are highly recommended for post-menopausal women, anyone with maternal history of hip fractures, anyone with a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, chronic kidney disease, chronic liver disease, type-1 diabetes and thyroid or parathyroid conditions. The scans are also recommended to people that take medications known to produce bone loss, such as corticosteroids.
What Should I Expect?
Before the exam, a technologist will call you to provide instructions. You should not take calcium supplements for at least 24 hours before the scan. When you arrive, a technologist will ask you questions about your symptoms and determine if you have any metal inside your body. You may be asked to remove jewelry and any objects containing metal that would obscure the field of view.
Low Dose Radiation
No Pain
How Long Will It Take?
The scan is quick and should be completed in about 15 minutes.
How Will I Get the Results?
After your scan, a board-certified radiologist will read the images produced from the scan. The radiologist will prepare a report that will be sent to your doctor. Your doctor’s office will contact you with the results.
You Get to Choose
Switching your imaging to CDI is simple and will almost always mean less out-of-pocket costs to you. Choose whichever method you prefer:
For Physicians
CDI provides DEXA scans for male and female patients. Patients can have DEXA scans performed during a screening mammogram visit.
Because CDI is a small facility, our negotiated allowable rate for third party payors is less than big box facilities.
This means the out-of-pocket percentage required by the patient is much less.
Contact Us
The friendly, professional CDI staff is here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions, concerns or help transferring imaging orders to us. We’ll make it easy.