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GE Medical Systems Prodigy Advance (Bone Densitometry)
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| The Lunar Prodigy Advance is one of the most advanced bone densitometry technologies available. The technology significantly enhances Dubai Bone and Joint Center's diagnostic capability for accurately and rapidly assessing total body bone and tissue composition, vertebral assessments, advanced hip assessments, pediatric evaluations, and biomechanical measurements. This is just one of the many ways that Dubai Bone and Joint Center's is continually advancing its screening and diagnostic capabilities to improve the management of osteoporosis and other related musculoskeletal conditions. |
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Bone Densitometry |
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Bone densitometry is an X-ray like test that quickly and accurately measures the density of bone. It is used primarily to detect osteopenia or osteoporosis, diseases in which the bone's mineral content and density are low and the risk of fractures is high. After the test is performed, the results are reviewed by specially trained physicians. This process uses specific x-ray wavelengths which are transmitted through a patient and picked up by a detector system below the patient. Computers calculate the bone calcium content from the resulting absorption of certain wavelengths. This analysis is an important tool used in the assessment and treatment of osteoporosis. |
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Frequently Asked Questions |
Please click on the questions below to view the answers.
What is Bone Densitometry (DEXA SCAN)?
DEXA bone densitometry is an x-ray system that use for measuring bone mineral density
(BMD). DEXA is a quick, painless procedure for measuring bone loss. Measurement
of the lower spine and hips are most often done.
What are the uses of the DEXA scan?
DEXA bone densitometry is used to diagnose osteoporosis (a condition that often affects women after menopause but may also be found in men).
Osteoporosis involves a gradual loss of calcium, causing the bones to become thinner. The DEXA test can also assess your risk for developing fractures. If your bone density is found to be low, you and your physician can work together on a treatment plan to help prevent fractures before they occur. DEXA is also effective in tracking the effects of treatment for osteoporosis or for other conditions that cause bone loss.
When is bone density testing is recommended?
DEXA bone densitometry is an x-ray system that use for measuring bone mineral density
(BMD). DEXA is a quick, painless procedure for measuring bone loss. Measurement
of the lower spine and hips are most often done.
When is bone density testing is recommended?
- In a post-menopausal woman.
- History of hip fracture or smoking.
- In a post-menopausal woman who is tall (over 5 feet 7 inches) or thin (less than 125 pounds).
- In a man with clinical conditions associated with bone loss.
- If you are using medications that are known to cause bone loss, including corticosteroids such as Prednisone, various anti-seizure medications such as Dilantin and certain barbiturates, or high-dose thyroid replacement drugs.
- In hyperthyroidism patient.
- In peoples who experienced a fracture after only mild trauma.
- In people who have x-ray evidence of vertebral fracture or other signs of osteoporosis.
How should I prepare for the procedure?
On the day of the exam eat normally, but don't take calcium supplements for at least 24 hours beforehand. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, avoiding garments that have zippers, belts or buttons made of metal.
Women should always inform their physician or x-ray technologist if there is a possibility they are pregnant.
How does the procedure work?
The DEXA machine sends a thin, invisible beam of low-dose x-rays with two distinct energy peaks through your bones. One peak is absorbed mainly by soft tissue and the other by bone. The soft tissue amount can be subtracted from the total and what remains is a patient's bone mineral density.
All devices feature special software to compute the data and display them on a computer monitor, allowing your doctor to make an accurate diagnosis.
How long the procedure takes?
It depends on the parts of the body being examined. In our latest DEXA system it takes only 30 seconds for the spine and 30 seconds for the femur.
What will I experience during the x-ray procedure?
DEXA bone densitometry is a simple, painless, non-invasive procedure. Once on the table you may be asked to hold position for a short time while the arm of the machine passes over your body taking measurements. It is important that you stay as still as possible during the procedure to ensure a clear, useful image. No anesthesia is required.
What are the risks of the DEXA scan?
No complications are expected with the DEXA procedure.
What are the limitations of DEXA Bone Densitometry?
Despite its effectiveness as a method of measuring bone density DEXA is of limited use in people with a spinal deformity or those who have had previous spinal surgery. The presence of vertebral compression fractures or osteoarthritis may interfere with the accuracy of the test. CT scans may be more useful in such instances.
