Bone Density Measurement

Bone density measurement, also known as osteodensitometry, is a special X-ray examination that determines the mineral salt content of the bones. The examination provides information about how permeable the bones are to X-rays. The higher the permeability, the lower the bone density.

Bone density measurement

Early detection and prevention are the best ways to combat serious secondary diseases. One in three women going through the menopause is affected by bone structure disorders (known as osteoporosis). According to the guidelines of the German Osteology Association (DVO), preventive bone density measurement is recommended for all women under the age of 60 with one or more risk factors, as well as for all women over the age of 60, all men and women with bone fractures without adequate trauma in their medical history, those with bone metabolism disorders (Paget’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis) and long-term cortisone therapy (e.g. for asthma).

DXA bone density measurement (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry) is the safest preventive examination and the current ‘gold standard’ according to the DVO guidelines. Bone density is measured at two different sites (lumbar spine and femoral neck). The method involves low radiation and takes only about 10 minutes.