A bone mineral densitometry (BMD) scan, also known as Bone Density Scan is used to diagnose osteoporosis. This scan takes pictures of your bones using small amounts of ionizing radiation, measuring the amount of mineral in your hip and spine. This x-ray looks like a large, flat table with an x-ray generator underneath. An arm-like imaging device is suspended over the table and slowly passes over the area being examined.
BMDs are performed two days per week from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Requests for BMDs are arranged through a physician.
To book, call (519) 621-2333 ext. 2249.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment. Bring your health card and your medications list with you. If you are late, your appointment may be rescheduled. We do our best to stay on time, if there is a delay, you will be notified. It is a good idea to be prepared in case your appointment runs late. Upon arrival, check in with Patient Registration before proceeding to Diagnostic Imaging Registration. You will be asked to fill out a short medical history form that asks about medications, diseases, or conditions you may have and any family history of osteoporosis.
Let the technologist know if you have had a barium x-ray within the last two weeks or if you had a nuclear medicine scan or injection of an x-ray dye within the last week. If you wish to have a doctor other than your referring doctor copied on the results, please let the receptionist know before your test.
Note: female patients aged 10-55 will be asked if there is any chance of pregnancy.
You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and your height and weight will be measured. Since the scan uses an x-ray, any metal jewelry needs to be removed. The machine will be positioned over your torso. We may ask you to change positions a few times while pictures are being taken of your lower back and hips.
The entire scan takes about 15 minutes.
What happens during a Bone Densitometry Test?
The most common bone density test in use today is called dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). This test involves lying on a table for several minutes while a small x-ray detector scans your spine, one hip, or both. You may be asked to lift your legs onto a support to straighten your back for the test.
The test is safe and painless and does not require any injections or any other discomfort. You receive a very small amount of radiation from a DXA test, approximately the same amount you are exposed to if you fly from Toronto to Vancouver.
Learn more about this type of exam: Bone Density Scan (DEXA or DXA).
A report is sent to your physician within two weeks. Your referring physician (or the doctor you copied) will contact you when the results are ready. They will discuss next steps with you.
Visit the Diagnostic Imaging Screening & Services page to see how to Access your medical images on-line.