What is a BMD scan?
A Bone Mineral Densitometry scan, or BMD, is a type of x-ray which measures the mineral density of your bones. It is also known as a Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scan.
These scans are used to help diagnose osteoporosis and assess fracture risk, and to monitor bone density, which is useful for people being treated for osteoporosis.
Your radiographer will ask you to lie on the scanning bed and will position you, before the machine scans your body. BMD scans usually include your lower spine and hips, but sometimes, other areas like the forearm may need to be scanned.
The scanning time is around five minutes, but the total duration of the appointment is about 20 minutes.
A BMD scan does not require any specific preparation. Please wear loose clothing to your appointment, preferably with no metal.
In some instances, you may be given a gown to wear, as some materials and embellishments may affect the results of your scan. You may also be asked to remove objects like watches or jewellery for your scan, so consider leaving any valuables at home.
If you have any previous BMD results, please bring them along to your appointment so they can be compared against your current results.
You will also be asked for your height, weight, and medical history before your scan.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment with your Medicare card and/or concession card, your referral, and any relevant previous scans. If you have a child aged 6 or under, they must be supervised by an adult other than the patient.
The radiation dose in a BMD scan is very low. Health experts feel the risk to your health from this is very small and the benefits of the diagnostic information obtained usually outweigh any potential risks. No radiation remains in your body after the scan.
If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, please let your doctor and our staff know, as x-rays can potentially harm an unborn baby.
A BMD scan does not require any specific after care. You may resume normal activities after your scan, unless advised otherwise by your healthcare practitioner.
Please contact your preferred clinic for all quotes and enquiries. Our friendly customer service team can advise you of any costs involved with your scan including any out-of-pocket costs if relevant.
We recommend arranging alternative childcare for the time of your scan, or have another adult accompany you to the appointment to care for your child.
Children are not allowed in the examination room, and there is no supervision available in the waiting area.
Our staff need to maintain full focus during your examination to ensure the best possible care.
