Densitometry machines in New Zealand
What is a densitometry machine?
A densitometry machine determines how much mineral is present in the bone.
How does the bone densitometer work?
The bone densitometer uses small amounts of x-ray to produce images of the spine, hip, or even the whole body. The x-ray is composed of two energy levels which are absorbed differently by the bones in the body. The technical term for the method is "dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry", or DXA. A computer is able to determine from these differences how much bone mineral is present. The spine and hip are measured because that is where osteoporotic fractures occur most.
What can I expect during my bone densitometry test?
The bone densitometer is like a large examination table. It is padded and comfortable.
Your name, age, height, weight and ethnicity will be entered into the computer before your test. This information is used to compare your results to a normal reference group.
You will be asked to lie on your back, remaining in your normal clothing. Belt buckles, metal or thick plastic buttons, and metal jewellery will need to be removed from the region being examined.
The operator will position your arms and legs for the test, which is painless and typically takes one to ten minutes. You just need to lie still and breathe normally.
Is the test safe?
Even though x-rays are used, the amount absorbed by the patient is only about 1/10th of that received from a chest x-ray. Other x-ray procedures have even higher x-ray doses. The x-ray dose from the bone densitometry test is comparable to the naturally occurring radiation you are exposed to in one week.
Click here to find the densitometry machine closest to you.
Are you eligible for a free scan?
For about 10 years pharmaceutical company Merck Sharp and Dohme New Zealand Ltd has funded DXA scan programme for people in order to establish their eligibility for treatment. The cost of a DXA scan is approximately $120-$180 which is a significant outlay for many people, but is a very important element in correctly diagnosing and treating osteoporosis.
To access funded medication for osteoporosis a t-score DXA result is required for the majority of people with risk factors.
This programme ensures people who are unable to cover the cost themselves to have the DXA scan done and therefore establish their need for treatment.
Ask your doctor if you may be eligible for a free scan on your next visit.
