Bone Densitometry

Bone densitometry is a test conducted to evaluate bone density loss, to scan and measure bone mineral density. This test is used to diagnose the bone condition osteoporosis, which develops as a result of calcium loss in the bones. Bone densitometry is known as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry or bone density scanning. A very small amount of radiation is used during this process. Bone densitometry is a standard method for evaluating bone mineral density. It provides a quick and painless measurement of bone loss, and the hip and lower part of the spine are often used for measurement.

Why is bone density measurement done?

Since the patient will have to be hungry in tests that require intravenous drug use, it is appropriate not to eat anything after the dinner the night before the examination. In very urgent cases, the fasting period can be reduced to 4-6 hours.

In women, after the age of 40, loss of bone mass begins, which accelerates with menopause. Average bone mass in women in the first decade of menopause. 15%; In men, it disappears by 20-30% throughout life. The greater the rate of loss of bone mass, the greater the risk of fracture. With bone density measurement, both osteoporosis and fracture risk can be calculated and follow-up can be done after treatment.

Osteoporosis, which is one of the events that most affect women after menopause, is an increase in the risk of fractures as a result of the loss of calcium content of the bones and the thinning of the bone.

Bone densitometry is often used in the diagnosis of osteoporosis. Of course, this can happen to men as well. If your bone density is low, you and your doctor should plan what action to take or treatment before a fracture occurs.

Bone densitometry is used to show other events that cause bone loss, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of your treatment.

Who is bone density measurement performed for?

If you smoke or have a personal or family history of hip fracture
If you are a man with diseases associated with bone loss
Type 1 (juvenile or insulin dependent) diabetics, or those with a family history of osteoporosis
Those who show excessive collagen increases in urine examinations
Subjects with high-dose bone content changes
Those with a broken spine or other signs of osteoporosis
Women at high risk for osteoporosis in the premenopausal period
Women who have surgically entered menopause (both ovaries removed)
Women with postmenopausal risk factors
Slim and tall postmenopausal women
Those with a family history of osteoporosis, those with spinal fractures
Shorter than 160 cm and 50 kg. weight less than
2.5 cm per year. for those with more stature
for those over 65
For those on a calcium-poor diet
In cases of fractures caused by minor impacts or traumas in adulthood
Those who have decreased bone density (osteopenia) in the X-ray
Those who consume excessive alcohol, cigarettes, coffee
If there are contraindications to estrogen therapy
For those with low testosterone levels
Those who have to stay still (immobilization) for more than 1 month
For diabetics
Long-term users of drugs such as Heparin, Antacid Corticosteroids (Prednisone), Dilantin and Barbiturates, Thyroid Hormone

Who can not measure bone density?

Pregnant women
Those who used oral or intravenous contrast material 2 – 6 days before the examination date
For those who can’t sleep
It cannot be applied to those with severe spinal deformation.