A BMD test is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure that measures the density of minerals (such ascalcium) in bones using a special X-ray, Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). This methodology uses two different X-ray beams to estimate bone density in your spine and hip and can measure as little as 2% of bone loss per year strength of your bones. The procedure is fast, painless and uses very low doses of radiation to measure BMD and provides valuable information for estimation of the strength of your bones.

As we age our bones naturally become thinner as calcium and other minerals are lost causing the bones to become lighter, less dense, and more porous (osteopenia). This makes the bones weaker, and increases the risk of a fracture.  With further bone loss, osteopenia leads to osteoporosis a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to break. If not prevented or if left untreated, osteoporosis can progress painlessly and silently until a bone breaks. Any bone can be affected, but typically fractures occur in the hip, spine, and wrist. A hip fracture almost always requires hospitalization and major surgery and can impair a person's ability to walk unassisted and may cause prolonged or permanent disability. Spinal or vertebral fractures also have serious consequences, including loss of height, severe back pain, and deformity. Although osteoporosis can occur in men, it is most common in women older than age 65.

A written referral signed by your physician is required prior to booking an appointment for a BMD exam. You must bring the referral form with you for appointment. Prior to booking an appointment please advise your physician if you recently had a barium examination or if you have been injected with a contrast media or radioisotope scan.

You will be asked to lie down on an exam table for approx 15-20 minutes whilst a small x-ray detector scans the spine, hip or both. Once the exam is completed you are free to leave and resume your normal daily activities.

The radiologist will generate a written report which will be sent to your referring physician.