Osteodensitometry
Principle
Osteodensitometry is a radiology technique that measures bone density and calcium content, a key factor in bone strength, using very low doses of X-rays. This completely painless exam is used for the early detection of osteoporosis.
This exam is contraindicated in pregnancy.
Exam
Execution
The examination takes about 15 minutes. You lie on your back on a table and the mobile arm of the device moves above you.
Typically two measurements are done in the most common sites for bone fractures, i.e., the lumbar spine and the femoral neck.
The results are then compared against reference curves for each site according to age, sex, and race.
These results can be used to determine treatment.