Eastern Pennsylvania Osteoporosis Center

Eastern Pennsylvania Osteoporosis Center

Osteoporosis Testing

BONE MASS MEASUREMENTS ENHANCE CLINICAL DECISIONS
A person's bone mass cannot be accurately determined from other clinical data, such as x-rays, questionnaires or biochemical tests. Substantial information from several studies indicates that bone mass measurement is the most accurate available predictor of future fractures. The bone density test provides additional data necessary for treatment recommendations as well as accurate assessment of the efficacy of a selected therapy. Patient data from earlier scans can be accurately compared to the present scan giving a measure of the percentage of bone density lost or gained over the treatment period. DXA (or dual energy x-ray absorptiometry) is an optimal method of bone density measurement for its safety, convenience, accuracy and precision.

BONE MINERAL DENISTY TEST 

DXA - Bone Mineral Density Test
The best way to determine your bone mass is a Bone Mineral Density test – also known as a DXA test. This is a non-invasive, painless test which measures your bone density generally in your spine, hip, and possibly also your forearm. The patient is placed on a table, fully clothed, while a "wand" sweeps over the test sites. The entire test takes about 5 minutes. By measuring these sites, we can assess your risk of fracture. The amount of radiation used in this test is minimal, about the same amount of exposure you would get riding in a convertible on a sunny day for two hours. In fact, the exposure level is so low that neither you nor the technician wear protective shields.


HEEL SCREENING FOR OSTEOPOROSIS

SCreening with the Sahara machine
The Sahara machine is a portable radiation-free screening method which tests bone density in the heel using ultrasound. This is a non-invasive, painless test which lasts about ten seconds. We utilize this equipment for on-site screenings for businesses, organizations and clubs. Please contact us for more information on scheduling an osteoporosis screening at your location. Based upon your results, and other risk factors, your doctor may prescribe further testing (DXA.)