X-ray bone density scan

A bone density scan is a measurement of the bone mineral density (BMD), usually at the hip or the lumbar spinal column.

Useful link: www.osteoporoseinfo.be

Preparation for the test

There are no specific preparations for this test.
Let your nurse or physician know if you are (possibly) pregnant. If that is the case, the procedure cannot be performed.

Procedure

The test is performed using a DEXA (Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) machine. It is painless and only takes a few minutes. The patient needs to lie still without moving on the examination table during this time. The test is performed using a very low dose of X-rays and is not dangerous.

Latest publication date: 08/01/2024
Supervising author: Dr Schoofs Christophe