DEXA

Our state-of-the-art GE-Lunar Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) system is located at our Laguna Woods facility. This scanner determines bone density at the hip and spine, the most widely accepted way to screen, diagnose and track osteoporosis and osteopenia (early stage of osteoporosis).

Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to break. It affects millions of women and men and is a leading cause of hip and vertebral fractures, loss of height and disability. If not prevented or treated, osteoporosis can progress without symptoms, yet it is easily and safely diagnosed through bone densitometry. The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends bone density screening for women under age 65 with one or more risk factors and for women age 65 and over regardless of other risk factors. The following risk factors are:

• Age – Bones naturally become weaker as you age – the National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends all women 65 and older obtain a bone mineral density exam
• Race – Caucasian and Asian women are more likely to succumb to osteoporosis
• Bone Structure – Small boned and underweight women are at a greater risk
• Family History – Young women whose mothers have a history of vertebral (spine) fractures
• Lifestyle – Cigarette smoking, alcohol, lack of weight bearing exercise influence bone strength
• Diet – lack of calcium
• Medications – side effects can cause bone weakness
• Early Menopause – women who experience early menopause with at least one additional risk factor
• Post Menopausal women who present with fractures

This procedure takes less than 30 minutes and is covered by most health insurance plans. Medicare permits an individual to be tested and re-evaluated every 2 years.

CT Bone Mineral Density

Orange County Diagnostics also offers bone density testing on our Siemens CT scanner. Your referring physician may opt for this modality based on your condition and prior exams.