BMD SPINE

Introduction 

Bone Mineral Density (BMD) Spine Scan is a unique imaging procedure that gauges the strength of bones and identifies various medical conditions such as osteoporosis, especially in the spine region. It measures bone density within the vertebrae and assesses the skeletal system along with the risk of fractures. 

What is BMD Spine Scan? 

BMD Spine Scan is performed using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA or DXA) which measures bone density. It is targeted on the lumbar region of the spine to evaluate bone minerals and diagnose various illnesses associated with it. 

Types of BMD Spine Scan  

• DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry): The most accurate and universally accepted technique for evaluating bone density. 
• QCT (Quantitative Computed Tomography): Offers 3D representation of the bone but carries a greater risk of radiation exposure compared to other methods. 
• Ultrasound BMD: less frequently used beyond the scope of peripheral bones. 

• Bone mineral density (BMD) in grams per square centimetres. 
• T-score: The evaluated figure that is being compared to the bone density of a healthy young adult. 
• Z- Score: Evaluates bone density against peers within the same age cohort.  

• Evaluating spine’s fracture risk. 
• Monitoring the advancements of osteoporosis 
• Monitoring osteoporosis to determine treatment needs. 
• Assessing alterations due to changes in diet, exercise, or medication.  

When and Who Needs BMD Spine Scan? 

Indications: 

• Suspected osteoporosis (elderly men and women, especially post-menopausal women). 
• Patients with advanced spine fractures after minimal trauma. 
• Patients receiving treatment for non-neoplastic bone diseases to assess treatment effectiveness.  
• Chronic back pain with possible underlying osteoporosis. 

Patient Demographics: 

• Women after menopause. 
• Elderly people with history of non-traumatic fractures. 
• Patients receiving chronic glucocorticoid therapy. 
• Patients with other metabolic bone conditions.  

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Procedure is quick and non-invasive. 
• Provides a reliable assessment of spinal bone health. 
• Critical in the diagnosis of osteoporosis at its initial stages. 
• Useful in developing treatment protocols and adjusting them over time. 

Conditions Diagnosed with BMD Spine Scan

• Osteoporosis.  
• Osteopenia (subnormal bone density). 
• Assessment of fracture risks. 
• Excessive metabolic bone loss.  

• Do not take calcium supplements the day before the test. 
• Wear loose fitting clothes without metal. 
• Advise technician if a contrast imaging procedure was done recently. 

Pre-requisites:  

• No prerequisites. 
• No fasting is needed. 
• No medication is needed beforehand.  

Best Time for Taking BMD Spine Scan 

• Suggested every one to two years for patients with higher risk factors.  
• As per physician's direction.  

Eligibility: 

• Generally low restriction. 
• Not ideal for pregnant women.  

Procedure for taking the BMD Spine Scan 

• Patient must lie on a scanning table comfortably. 
• Measures of bone mineral density of the lumbar vertebrae areas are done by passing a DEXA scanner over the lower spine. 
• The process takes between 10 and 20 minutes. 
• Requires no injections or the use of contrast dye. 

Caution Prior to Undergoing the Test 

• Notify the operator if you are a pregnant woman. 
• Do not take calcium supplements a week prior to the test. 
• Remove any metal jewellery that may affect the measurement.