Bone Densitometers

The bone densitometry procedure does not require any special preparation, but cannot be completed on women who may be or are pregnant. In addition, the patient should inform the doctor and technician in the event of a recent barium exam, or an injection of contrast material for a CT or radioisotope scan. The patient should wear loose, comfortable clothing and leave jewelry at home. It’s important not to ingest calcium supplements for at least 24 hours prior to the exam.

The bone densitometer machine (also known as a DXA machine) emits a thin, invisible beam of low-dose x-rays. There are two distinct energy peaks sent through the bones during the exam. The soft tissue absorbs the first peak and the bone absorbs the second peak. A bone densitometer has special software for computing and displaying bone density calculations on the monitor.

The procedure is normally an outpatient exam. In a central exam, which measures the hip and spine, the patient lies on a padded table, with the x-ray generator located below the patient and the imaging device located above. The patient must lie very still, and a pad or brace will be used to support the spine or hip. The procedure takes 10 to 30 minutes. The same machine is also used to detect vertebrae fractures in a procedure call Lateral Vertebral Assessment. Tests for the hand, finger, or foot are much less complicated, and the body part being tested is placed on a small device that gives the bone density reading within minutes.

The benefits of the procedure include its simplicity, relatively short duration, and that it is noninvasive, requiring no anesthesia. And the x-ray dose is minimal--less than one-tenth of a standard x-ray and less than one day’s worth of exposure to radiation. No radiation remains in the patient after the exam, and no complications are expected. A bone densitometer machine is by far the most reliable way to diagnosis osteoporosis and fracture risk. The cons of bone densitometry are minimal, mostly related to the risks posed for pregnant women.

The technician should receive special training to ensure the lowest radiation dose possible for the patient is administered, while getting the best images for diagnosis. There are national and international radiology protection organizations that are continuously reviewing and updating technique requirements for radiology professionals. The bone densitometer equipment has very controlled x-ray beams and dose control methods to eliminate stray or scatter radiation and make sure the body parts that are not being examined get minimal exposure.

Whether you are looking for a whole body density machine, heel bone densitometer, a finger bone density machine or a hand densitometer, you would be wise to consider buying a refurbished or used bone densitometer. Provided you are working with a reputable dealer, you will be able to get a quality machine that is restored to almost new condition for a fraction of the price of a brand new one. This makes a wide variety of bone densitometers accessible to small clinic and practice budgets.