Am I at risk for Osteoporosis?

YOUR RISK FOR OSTEOPOROSIS IS HIGHER IF YOU:

• Are a post-menopausal woman who is not taking estrogen
• Are a post-menopausal woman who is tall (over 5’7″) or thin (less than 125 pounds)
• Have a personal or maternal risk of hip fractures
• Are a man with clinical conditions associated with bone loss
• Use medications known to cause bone loss, such as corticosteroids, Dialantin, or high dose thyroid replacement drugs
• Have experienced a fracture after a mild trauma
• Suffer from hyperthyroidism or hyperparathyroidism
• Have had X-ray evidence of vertebral fracture or other sign of osteoporosis
• Have type 1 diabetes, kidney or liver disease, or family history of osteoporosis

How do I prepare for the test?

Do not take calcium supplements for at least 24 hours before the exam. Dress comfortably, avoiding garments that have zippers, belts or buttons made of metal. You may be asked to wear a gown.

When can I expect the results?

A radiologist will review the images and send a report to your referring physician within one business day. Your doctor will review the report and contact you with the results.

What happens during the test?

You will be asked to lie face up on a padded table. An X-ray detector or arm is located above the table. To assess your spine, your legs will be supported on a padded box to flatten the pelvis and lower spine. To assess your hip, your foot will be placed in a brace that rotates your hip inward. In both cases, the detector arm is slowly passed over the hip and spine, generating images on a computer monitor. Just relax and remain still for a few seconds. It is a quick and painless procedure. There are no restrictions after the exam. You can expect a 30-minute appointment with a 10-minute scan time.