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BONE DENSITOMETRY Radiography-based (X-ray) Bone Densitometry Services Bone densitometry, available at the Katherine Wright Family Wellness Centre, is used most often to diagnose osteoporosis, a condition that often affects women after menopause. Osteoporosis involves a gradual loss of calcium, causing the bones to become thinner, more fragile and more likely to break. The test can also assess the patient's risk for developing fractures. If the bone density is found to be low, the patient and her physician can work together on a treatment plan to help prevent fractures before they occur. Bone densitometry is also effective in tracking the effects of treatment for osteoporosis or for other conditions that cause bone loss. Bone densitometry is a simple, painless, non-invasive procedure. Medical radiation technologists use an enhanced form of X-ray technology called dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA or DXA). DEXA bone densitometry is today's established standard for measuring bone mineral density (BMD). Measurement of the lower spine and hips are the areas most often done. Once on the table, the patient may be asked to hold an awkward position for a short time while the arm of the machine passes over the body taking measurements. It is important that the patient stays as still as possible during the procedure to ensure a clear, useful image. Anesthesia is not required and radiation exposure is minimal. Around 4,700 bone density exams take place at the Katherine Wright Family Wellness Centre each year. This service is offered through a physician's referral. Contact information: Katherine Wright Family Wellness Centre 234 Reade Street Moncton, N.B. E1C 6S8 Ph: (506) 855-2010 Fax: (506) 855-2018 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  Back to top |
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The bone densitometry test is used to diagnose osteoporosis, to determine the patient's risk of developing fractures and tracks how treatments are working for conditions that cause bone loss.
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