Bone Densitometry: A Fast, Simple Examination

Monica Rodriguez, R.T., Certified Densitometry Technologist, prepares a patient for a bone densitometry exam.

Your bone densitometry examination may be the easiest medical examination you will have over the course of your life. Basically, all it involves is for you to lie back and let the bone densitometer do the work. However, there are always valid concerns about any medical procedure. For your peace of mind, this webpage addresses these important questions.

Will it hurt?

Absolutely not. There is no pain at all associated with a bone densitometry examination.

Is the examination safe?

Bone densitometry involves an extremely small dose of radiation. How small? An AP spine scan delivers less than one-tenth the dosage of a chest x-ray. As in any medical procedure, if you are pregnant, be sure to inform your physician.

Is there special preparation involved?

No special preparation is required. There are no painful injections, bad-tasting oral preparations or uncomfortable enemas.

Do I have to alter my eating habits?

This is not an examination that requires you to have an empty stomach, drink a certain amount of water, or any other such preexamination preparation on your part.

What should I wear?

Wear any kind of clothing you like, but please avoid metal buttons or buckles.

What do I do during the examination?

Lie still. Breathe normally. Rest comfortably.

How long will the examination take?

Spine or femur measurements take approximately two to five minutes while total body measurements take approximately ten to fifteen minutes. Your physician will determine the examination that is best for you.

What will the examination determine?

The bone densitometer will measure your bone mineral density (BMD). It will also compare your measurements to a reference population based on your age, weight, sex and ethnic background. This information will be used by your physician in making a diagnosis about your bone status and fracture risk.

Is that all there is to it?

That's all. Your physician will take care of the rest. Relax and enjoy the examination.

Locations

To schedule a Bone Density appointment at the New Mexico Arthritis Clinic, please call 291-2222.

PMG - Kaseman Arthritis Clinic
8100 Constitution Place NE Suite 210
Albuquerque, NM 87110

To schedule a Bone Density apppointment at High Resort in Rio Rancho please call 462-8815.

PMG - High Resort Imaging Center
4100 High Resort Blvd
Rio Rancho, NM 87124

To schedule a Bone Density apppointment at Presbyterian Professional Building please call 563-6400.

Presbyterian Professional Building
201 Cedar SE, Suites 4660 and 4640
Albuquerque, NM 87106