Bone Mineral Densitometry (BMD)

what is bone mineral densitomery?

Bone Mineral Densitometry (BMD) is the method used to quantify the mass of bone in the body.

Patients who have been referred by their doctors for BMD scan are usually being assessed for osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a common bone disease which makes bone fragile and easy to fracture. Women tend to have higher risk of osteoporosis.

Future risk of fracture can be predicted through a BMD measurement and steps can then be taken to prevent them from happening.

when do i need a bone mineral densitomery (bmd) scan

If you have/are:

  • Female aged 50 years and above or post-menopausal
  • Family history of osteoporosis
  • Low calcium intake in your diet
  • An alcoholic or/and smoker
  • A sedentary lifestyle

are there any risks involved

  • Radiation exposure is very low and you receive less than 10% of a routine chest X-ray radiation
  • For female patients, please inform the radiographer if you are pregnant or suspect that you might be pregnant before the start of the examination.

how is the procedure performed?

  • You will be asked to change into a gown.
  • Your height and weight measurements will be taken.
  • The radiographer will explain to you which area is to be examined and position you appropriately.
  • The whole procedure takes about 15 minutes to complete.
  • There is no discomfort during the examination.

are there any risks involved

  • A radiologist, who is a physician experienced in analyzing the BMD results and other imaging examinations, will analyze the images and provide a report.
  • The signed report will be sent to your primary care physician before your next appointment.