What is the exam?
This is a study that determines loss of bone mass or degree of osteoporosis.
How is it done?
Avoid wearing clothing with metal buttons, zips or buckles.
Do not ingest calcium within 48 hours before the exam.
Do not take any contrast medium within 72 hours before the exam (contrast for X-rays, CT scans and bone scintigraphy).
Bring previous bone density scans or X-rays of the lumbar spine.
Procedures:
- Avoid wearing clothing with metal buttons, zips or buckles.
- Do not ingest calcium within 48 hours before the exam.
- Do not take any contrast medium within 72 hours before the exam (contrast for X-rays, CT scans and bone scintigraphy).
- Bring previous bone density scans or X-rays of the lumbar spine.
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is the natural loss of bone mass which occurs naturally with ageing in men and women. It is quite high in women in the first years after menopause and leads to a weakening and ‘porosity of the bones’.
The internal part of the bone is like a sponge, full of pores (empty spaces). The less porous a bone is, the greater its resistance. Osteoporosis increases the size of these pores, reducing the bone’s resistance and increasing the risk of fractures, primarily in the neck of the femur, the spine and the wrist.
It is a risk factor for fractures because if the bone is weakened, a small household accident (trips, slips, etc.) could cause serious injury. Fractures of the femur in particular could even cause a patient’s death.
Osteoporosis is diagnosed with a bone density scan, which is the most widely indicated method in determining how much the porosity has increased, during preventive checks and for treatment follow-up. It is a safe, painless examination. No incisions are made (non-invasive) and no special preparation is required.
A bone density scan may indicate low bone density (greater porosity) before a fracture occurs. If the scan is done every year, the possibility of a fracture in the future can be statistically predicted. It is an important exam which helps the doctor, by means of charts and reference values, make a preventive diagnosis and monitor osteoporosis treatment, thereby providing a better quality of life.
