Bone densitometry scan

What preparation is needed?

No specific preparation is required, but if you are using any medications, please bring a list with you.

The scan should not be performed within 72 hours of a nuclear bone scan or within a week of a barium study, as both procedures may influence the accuracy of the bone density scan results.

What to expect during the procedure?

The examination is performed by a radiographer and should take no more than 30 minutes. It is completely painless.

You will be given a gown to change into, and the radiographer will position you on the scan bed. The ‘arm’ of the machine will be positioned above you and will move during the procedure while the density of your spine and hips are measured.

A computer report will be generated using specialised software to determine your bone density.

Feel free to ask your radiographer if you have any questions regarding the procedure.

What are the risks?

Although the scanner uses an extremely low dosage of X-rays – so little in fact that the radiographer will remain in the room with you throughout the entire examination – it is still important to inform the radiographer if you are pregnant or expect that you might be pregnant.

What happens after the procedure?

You can resume normal daily activities after the examination. You will be given a copy of your results, and a detailed report will be sent to your referring doctor to discuss it with you.