What is bone densitometry?
Bone densitometry is a diagnostic procedure that can be used to assess the structure of the bone. It is also known as osteodensitometry.
When is a bone densitometry performed?
In addition, the examination can be used to monitor osteoporosis therapy.
Another clinical picture in which bone density plays a central role is osteomalacia. In this case, too few minerals are incorporated into the bone, causing the bones to soften. The disorder in the bone formation process can be detected by measuring bone density.
How is bone density measured?
DXA/DEXA measurement
Quantitative ultrasound
Quantitative computed tomography
Quantitative computed tomography is another method of measuring bone density. It is performed in the same way as a normal CT scan: the patient is placed on his or her back and passed through a CT scanner, which produces slice images of the vertebral bodies. This method captures the small bone belly cells well, but is rarely used for bone density measurement due to the increased radiation exposure.
Bone density measurement: values and their significance
|
Measured T-value |
|
|
Normal bone |
> -1 standard deviation |
|
Osteoporosis precursor (osteopenia) |
-1 to -2.5 standard deviations |
|
Preclinical osteoporosis |
< -2.5 standard deviations |
|
Manifest osteoporosis |
< -2.5 standard deviations + at least one osteoporotic fracture |
What are the risks of bone densitometry?
For the patient, bone densitometry – regardless of the procedure – is not associated with pain.
What do I have to observe after a bone densitometry?
After the bone densitometry (DXA, ultrasound, CT), you as a patient do not have to observe any special precautions. Depending on the results, the doctor will take further steps: If you have a normal bone density, the doctor will discuss with you whether and when a further control measurement is advisable (e.g. in the case of a familial increased risk of osteoporosis).