Bone Densitometry

What is a bone density scan?

Bone density scanning is an enhanced form of x-ray technology that is used to measure bone loss. The scan measures the bone density and compares that number with standard measurements based on age, sex, and racial background.

The exam is quick and painless. Your doctor will receive a copy of your results to discuss with you.

For more information on bone density scans, call (423) 778-7234. Click on the locations page to see where this exam is available and how to schedule.

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that happens when the body loses too much bone, does not make enough bone, or both. Bones become weak and break very easily, sometimes, in serious cases, just from sneezing or bumping into something.

In the image above, the bone sample to the left is healthy, resembling a honeycomb. As osteoporosis occurs, the pores in the bone become larger and more spaced out, like the bone sample to the right.

Osteoporosis is very common. About 54 million Americans have osteoporosis. The current statistic is that 1 in 2 women and up to 1 in 4 men, age 50 and older, will break a bone due to osteoporosis.

A bone density scan will detect the bone mineral density by using low dose radiation and highly advanced technology to analyze the bone's density. Then a board-certified radiologist will interpret the results and send them to your primary care physician who will determine if treatment is necessary.

For more information, call (423) 778-7234.

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