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Bone Density TestThe bone density test uses a special type of X-ray to measure the amount of calcium and other minerals in your bones. It can measure bone density in the hip and the spine. The test procedure is similar to having a regular X-ray. This test may also be called:Bone densitometry.Bone mineral density test.Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA).You may have this test to:Diagnose a condition that causes weak or thin bones (osteoporosis).Screen you for osteoporosis.Predict your risk for a broken bone (fracture).Determine how well your osteoporosis treatment is working.Tell a health care provider about:Any allergies you have.All medicines you are taking, including vitamins, herbs, eye drops, creams, and over-the-counter medicines.Any problems you or family members have had with anesthetic medicines.Any blood disorders you have.Any surgeries you have had.Any medical conditions you have.Whether you are pregnant or may be pregnant.Any medical tests you have had within the past 14 days that used contrast material.What are the risks?Generally, this is a safe procedure. However, it does expose you to a small amount of radiation, which can slightly increase your cancer risk.What happens before the procedure?Do not?take any calcium supplements starting 24 hours before your?test.Remove all metal jewelry, eyeglasses, dental appliances, and any other metal objects.What happens during the procedure?You will lie down on an exam table. There will be an X-ray generator below you and an imaging device above you.Other devices, such as boxes or braces, may be used to position your body properly for the scan.The machine will slowly scan your body. You will need to keep still.The images will show up on a screen in the room. Images will be examined by a specialist after your test is done.The procedure may vary among health care providers and hospitals.What happens after the procedure?It is up to you to get your test results. Ask your health care provider, or the department that is doing the test, when your results will be ready.SummaryA bone density test is an imaging test that uses a type of X-ray to measure the amount of calcium and other minerals in your bones.The test may be used to diagnose or screen you for a condition that causes weak or thin bones (osteoporosis), predict your risk for a broken bone (fracture), or determine how well your osteoporosis treatment is working.Do not take any calcium supplements starting 24 hours before your test.Ask your health care provider, or the department that is doing the test, when your results will be ready.This information is not intended to replace advice given to you by your health care provider. Make sure you discuss any questions you have with your health care provider.Document Released: 01/09/2006 Document Revised: 01/03/2019 Document Reviewed: 10/22/2018Elsevier Patient Education ? 2020 Elsevier Inc.? ................
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