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An estimated 28 million Americans -- 80 percent of them women -- have osteoporosis,
a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to break. But many people
don't know they have it.
The Hospital of Saint Raphael offers a fast, easy and painless test that can show if
you are at risk for broken bones associated with osteoporosis.
How does it work?
Though a fractured vertebra sounds very painful, many times there are no symptoms, and these fractures can be difficult to detect during a regular exam. Saint Raphael's new state-of-art scanner -- called a DXA bone densitometer -- shows existing fractures of the vertebrae in the spine. It also shows and low bone density. These are two leading signs of bone breaks associated with osteoporosis.
As you lie on an exam table, the scanner moves above your body, taking images of your spine while measuring the mineral content of your spine and thigh bones.
The scan is completely painless, lasts only 15 minutes and is done on an outpatient basis. It uses a fraction of the radiation of an X-ray and unlike traditional nuclear medicine bone scans, you won't need a radiotracer injection. The test is safe for patients with pacemakers and other implanted devices. In many cases, you'll be able to wear your regular clothes during the test!
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How can I get tested?
Your physician must refer you for the test. It is covered by Medicaid, Medicare and most insurance companies. Because most bone loss occurs during the first 10 years after menopause, it is anticipated many physicians will recommend the scan be done along with patients' mammograms.
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Though there is no cure for osteoporosis, there are promising treatments and steps you can take to prevent it. The earlier you're diagnosed, the sooner your physician can begin treating you to prevent future bone loss -- before you reach the breaking point.
Additional information
Bone assessments are performed Monday - Friday in the hospital's Radiology Department.
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For information or to make an appointment, call (203) 789-3124.
This page
was last updated on 10/25/2006
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