What is a bone density examination?
Examination of bone density is intended for the diagnosis of osteoporosis – a bone disease caused by a reduction and decline in the density of the material that the skeletal bones are composed of, causing the bones to become progressively weaker, with danger of fractures of the spine, the femoral neck (hip) and the wrist.
Early diagnosis with the help of this examination is one of the most efficient means for dealing with this disease. Measurement of the bone density enables one's level of risk for suffering fractures to be known. The lower the bone density, the higher the risk level.
Today there are several known treatments to prevent or arrest the process of reduction in bone density. This examination can therefore assist in obtaining early referral for treatment. The examination is non-invasive, painless, and utilizes a very low intensity of radiation. In addition, the diagnosis is easy, quick and accurate.
How is a bone-density examination performed?
Examination of bone density is performed by a skilled medical team, with sophisticated x-ray equipment using the Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) method, checking the bone density (calcium content) in the spine, femoral neck (hip) and wrist.
The instrument identifies bone loss in the very early stages of the disease, and calculates the risk for fracture and the rate of rate of calcium loss. The computer compares your personal data obtained from the examination (density, age, height, weight) with the average in the general population, and, accordingly, determines the level of the disease and the need for treatment.
For whom is bone density testing recommended?
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For post-menopausal women.
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For people with a family history of osteoporosis.
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For women and men who have suffered bone fractures.
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For those who do not engage in adequate physical activity.
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For people who consume alcohol, caffeine or tobacco (cigarettes).
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For people with small body frames or low weight.
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For people who feel that they have lost height in recent years.
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After long-term use of steroids.
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As a screening test for women and men over the age of forty.
After registering at the reception desk, you will be asked to lie on your back on a bed, with the body part being examined located under the scanner. The spine, the femoral neck (hip) and/or the forearm are scanned.
