Radiology

Bone Desitometry

A bone densitometry scan is a diagnostic test to reveal the density of a person's bones, alerting a physician to the presence of osteoporosis. Until recently, the only way to diagnose osteoporosis was to wait for a complication to occur, such as a bone fracture. Bone densitometry has changed this "wait and see" approach, helping doctors to diagnose osteoporosis before complications occur.

Early detection of bone density loss can greatly improve the quality of life for those who develop the condition, as preventative steps can be taken to improve bone mass and possibly reverse the effects of osteoporosis.

There is no pain or discomfort associated with bone densitometry testing.
Bone densitometry doesn't use x-rays or any type of radioactivity, so there are no side effects.

The Bone Densitometry Unit is situated in its own room in the state-of-the-art Radiology Department at Hudson Valley Hospital Center, so privacy is guaranteed. The simple 8-minute scan is performed while you are fully clothed and reclining on a padded platform. One pass of the scanner highlights the spine - your legs will be elevated on a foam block - and another pass will record the bone density in one side of your body from shoulder to toe.

To make an appointment, call our direct Bone Densitometry line at Hudson Valley Hospital Center: (914) 734-3674.