BONE DENSITOMETRY

BGSA Radiology makes it a priority to ensure patients are at ease during their Bone Density exam so here is what you should expect when you come visit our clinic:

Please report to the clinic approximately 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
Please turn off or mute your phone before arriving.
You will need to change into a patient gown, a private changing room is provided.
An X-ray machine will scan your hip and lower spine (in some cases the wrist or forearm can be used).

Bone Densitometry uses very low-level X-ray to determine the density or strength of bones. It is able to determine if you have osteopenia as well as osteoporosis – a disease that causes bones to become more fragile and likely to break.

Please come prepared with a list of your current medications.

Please allow 7 days after all Nuclear Medicine and Barium Studies.

Upon arrival, you will need to change into a patient gown, a private changing room is provided.

PLEASE NOTE: AHS will only pay for one Bone Density exam every 2 years, if you had an exam at another facility within the last 2 years please reschedule your appointment or you may have to pay for the exam.

In the past, osteoporosis could only be detected after breaking a bone. However, by that time, your bones could be quite fragile. A bone density test makes it possible to know your risk of breaking bones before it happens.

This test uses low-level X-rays to measure how many milligrams of bone mineral are present in a specific section of bone. Although images of your hip and lower spine are preferred, the forearm can be used for as well.

Our technologists are certified by the International Society of Clinical Densitometry and licensed to practice thorough the Alberta College of Combined Laboratory and X-ray technologists or the Alberta College of Medical Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technologists.

What else can bone densitometry testing determine?

It can identify decreases in bone density before you break a bone, and therefore determine a person’s risk of breaking bones. It can also confirm an osteoporosis diagnosis if you’ve previously broken bones and monitor treatment for osteoporosis.

Is everyone eligible for bone densitometry?

You must be 50 years of age or older and are required to have a referral from your health care provider.
Alberta Health and Wellness guidelines stipulate only one screening Bone Density exam every 2 years.
Under special circumstances, a specialist may order a BMD exam more frequently.
Our equipment has a weight limit of 265 lbs (120 Kg)