BMD SPINE X-RAY SCAN
Also Known As
Lab Test
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About The Test
Quick Snapshot of a Spine Bone Density Scan
- One 10–15 minute test
- Painless, non-invasive
- Measures lumbar vertebrae density
How Cadabams Diagnostics Delivers Accurate Results
- Central DXA machine calibrated daily
- Board-certified radiologists on-site
- Digital reports via email & WhatsApp within 24 hours
What is BMD Spine X-Ray Scan?
Definition and Purpose
A BMD (Bone Mineral Density) Spine X-Ray Scan uses low-dose X-rays to quantify how much calcium and minerals are packed into your lumbar vertebrae. The scan predicts fracture risk and tracks treatment progress.
Difference Between DEXA and Standard X-Ray
Feature | DEXA (DXA) Scan | Standard Spine X-Ray |
---|---|---|
Radiation dose | < 1/10th of chest X-ray | Higher |
Precision | ±1 % | ±10 % |
Output | T-score & Z-score | Image only |
Purpose | Quantify density | Look for breaks |
Types of BMD Spine X-Ray Scan
Central DXA (Preferred)
- Scans lumbar spine and hips
- Gold standard for diagnosis
Peripheral or Screening Variants
- Forearm or heel devices
- Used at health camps, but less accurate
List of Parameters
- T-score: compares your density to healthy 30-year-old
- Z-score: compares to age-matched peers
- Bone Mineral Density (g/cm²): absolute value at L1–L4 vertebrae
Why This Test
- Detect early osteoporosis before fractures occur
- Monitor bone response to calcium, vitamin D, or medications
- Re-check status every 1–2 years if on therapy
When to Take Test
Age & Risk-Based Guidelines
- Women 65+ and men 70+: routine screening
- Post-menopausal women with risk factors: start at 50
- Adults 50–64 with low-trauma fracture or parental hip fracture
Medical Conditions Indicating Early Screening
- Long-term steroid use
- Over-active thyroid or parathyroid
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Chronic kidney or liver disease
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the BMD Spine X-Ray Scan
- Early Detection Prevents Fractures: 50 % hip-fracture reduction with timely action
- Quick, Non-Invasive Procedure: no needles, no sedation, back to work same day
Illnesses Diagnosed with BMD Spine X-Ray Scan
- Osteopenia: T-score –1 to –2.5 (warning zone)
- Osteoporosis: T-score ≤ –2.5
- Vertebral Compression Risk Assessment: predicts future collapse of vertebrae
Preparing for test
Pre-Test Diet & Medication Guidelines
- Stop calcium supplements: 24 hours prior
- Take regular medications with plain water
- Avoid barium tests: 1 week before
What to Wear & Bring
- Elastic-waist pants, no metal zippers
- Remove belts, coins, keys
- Aadhaar & doctor’s prescription
Pre-requisites BMD Spine X-Ray Scan
- Valid ID proof
- Fasting not required
- Skip multivitamins containing calcium on test day
Best Time to Take the BMD Spine X-Ray Scan
- Morning slots: ensure consistent hydration
- At least 2 weeks after high-dose vitamin D or calcium loading to avoid false spikes
Eligibility
Age & Gender Criteria
- Open to all adults 18+ when clinically indicated
- Senior citizens encouraged for baseline screening
Contraindications
- Pregnancy (always declared)
- Recent contrast MRI or CT within 7 days
- Severe obesity beyond table limit (150 kg)
Procedure for Taking a BMD Spine X-Ray Scan at Cadabams Diagnostics
- Check-in at reception with ID and referral
- Change into gown if clothing has metal
- Lie on padded DXA table, legs on foam block
- Scanner arm passes over lower spine for 5–7 minutes
- Technician reviews images; you’re free to leave
Duration & Comfort Tips: Whole visit < 20 minutes. Stay still; breathe normally.
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Pregnancy Declaration: mandatory for women 10–55 years
- Metal Implants: inform staff about rods, screws, or stimulators
- Recent Spine Surgery: wait 6 weeks post-op for accurate readings
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
Finding / Observation | Description (WHO Criteria) | General Interpretation / Significance |
---|---|---|
T-score ≥ –1.0 | Normal bone density | Low fracture risk |
T-score –1.0 to –2.5 | Osteopenia | Lifestyle + monitoring needed |
T-score ≤ –2.5 | Osteoporosis | Medical therapy recommended |
Z-score < –2.0 | Below age peers | Look for secondary causes |
Risks & Limitations
Radiation Exposure Facts
- Effective dose: ~0.001 mSv
- Equivalent to ½ day of natural background radiation
Situations Where Results May Be Inconclusive
- Severe arthritis with bone spurs
- Recent barium or contrast studies
- Metallic implants over lumbar region
FAQs
Is the scan painful?
No. You simply lie still—no injections or contrast.
How long does it take?
Scan time is 5–7 minutes; total visit is under 20 minutes.
Can I eat before the test?
Yes. Normal meals are fine; just avoid calcium tablets.
When will I get my results?
Within 24 hours via email/portal; hard copy same day if requested.
Is the radiation safe?
Yes. The dose is lower than a cross-country flight.