Bone Mineral Densitometry (BMD)
A bone mineral density test determines how rich your bones are in minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. The scan uses very low-energy X-rays to measure the amount of mineral in your bones. The higher the mineral content, the denser and stronger your bones are and the less likely they are to break easily. A bone mineral density test is used to diagnose bone loss and osteoporosis, as well as predict your risk of future bone fractures.
Related Information
You should have bone mineral testing if you have an increased risk of osteoporosis. Women aged over 65 and men aged over 70 are more likely to develop osteoporosis. Bone mineral density testing can also detect osteopenia, an intermediate stage of bone loss between normal bone density and osteoporosis. Your doctor may also suggest bone mineral density testing to monitor how your bones are responding to treatment if you have already been diagnosed with osteoporosis. Other reasons you may require BMD include: prolonged steroid use, early menopause, male hypogonadism (lower than usual testosterone).
No preparation is required for the scan, however booking an appointment is required. On the day of your scan, you will change in to a gown and lie on a special bed. Our technicians will place you in to the correct position and ensure you are comfortable. The scanner head moves down your body from head to toe slowly, capturing bone matter at each relevant site for the scan. The scan itself lasts approximately 5 minutes and total time in the DEXA suite should be around 10 – 15 minutes.
BMD is conducted at Western Radiology via a DEXA machine. DEXA uses very-low level X-ray to scan the body. Radiation from a DEXA scan is substantially less than background levels incurred in the natural environment. If you have had a BMD scan at a location in the past other than Western Radiology, don’t worry, our DEXA machines can make use of your previous scan information ensuring you maintain continuity in your care plan.
An analysis of your situation will be generated by the DEXA machine and form part of the information used by our team of expert radiologists to report on your overall bone health. The report and any other key data or images will be transmitted digitally to your referring physician within 24 hours, ready for you to attend your next appointment.
Western Radiology Claremont – 1/278 Stirling Hwy, Claremont WA 6010
Western Radiology Madeley – Unit 1, 210 Wanneroo Rd, Madeley WA 6065
Western Radiology Canning Vale – Unit 1, 410 Ranford Road, Canning Vale WA 6155
Western Radiology Morley – 133 Russell St, Morley WA 6062
Western Radiology Clarkson – 10/61 Key Largo Drive, Clarkson WA 6030
Western Radiology Mandurah – 73-77 Reserve Dr, Mandurah WA 6210
*If your scan is not listed, please phone reception.
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