Several methods are available to measure bone density, but currently the most widely used technique is DEXA (Dual Energy Xray Absorptiometry). This is the method used to determine efficacy in the recent large clinical trials, and to characterize fracture risk in large epidemiological studies.

Using a bone densitometer, physicians can measure patient bone density and follow it over time. If the patient's bone density is low, or decreases at an abnormally fast rate, the patient may be at risk for osteoporosis.

Hologic Discovery Bone Densitometry System

Penang Adventist Hospital is pleased to announce our new bone densitometry system namely Hologic Discovery for the measurement of bone density, known as BMD (Bone Mineral Density) or DXA (Dual X-ray Absorptiometry). The new system will make the evaluation of the bone health possible for AP spine, Supine Lateral Spine, Hips, Forearm, Wrist and Total Body assessment.

Hologic Discovery (DEXA Bone Densitometry)

In addition to that, our new Hologic Bone Densitometry system is also able to perform a single sweep scanning and produce superior quality image at the spine and hip in 10 seconds. Our Hologic Discovery system combines Bone Mineral Density (BMD) testing with the instant vertebral assessment (IVA) allowing evaluation of the two strongest risk factors for osteoporotic fractures; low bone density and existing spine fractures.

Osteoporosis Prevention Screening

Osteoporosis Prevention Screening is a sophisticated screening procedure by using DEXA (Dual Energy X-rat Absorption) Densitometry which is available at Penang Adventist Hospital.

Patients with risk factors or conditions that cause osteoporosis is recommended to have their Bone densitometry done:

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a disease consisting of porous, weak or fragile bones that are prone to break if involved even in minor stress.

How Does Osteoporosis Occur?

To understand the answer to this question, we need to first know that bone is constantly renewing itself as it gives away and retrieves calcium in its function as the storehouse for calcium. The rate at which this happens keeps changing throughout the different stages of life. We can see this in the spurts of growth in early life till adolescence. In early adulthood, the bone is still being built, but now it is largely to increase the density or heaviness. Around the age of thirty, the aging process sets in and the rate of bone building or remodeling slows down. In women, the slowing down is greater during and after menopause as estrogen production ceases. If for some reason the density of the bone decreases markedly, osteoporosis is the end result. The bones become brittle, weak and susceptible to fractures.

When Does Osteoporosis Occur?

To understand the answer to this question, we need to first know that bone is constantly renewing itself as it gives away and retrieves calcium in its function as the storehouse for calcium.  The rate at which this happens keeps changing throughout the different stages of life. We can see this in the spurts of growth in early life till adolescence.  In early adulthood, the bone is still being built, but now it is largely to increase the density or heaviness. Around the age of thirty, the aging process sets in and the rate of bone building or remodeling slows down. In women, the slowing down is greater during and after menopause as estrogen production ceases. If for some reason the density of the bone decreases markedly, osteoporosis is the end result. The bones become brittle, weak and susceptible to fractures.

How Common Is Osteoporosis?

Research has estimated that 25% of women will be affected to some extent by osteoporosis in later life. Little data is available for Asian countries, but based on available American studies, Hong Kong alone has 200,000 potential sufferers. In Taiwan, one-third of all women over the age of 65 have vertebral fractures due to osteoporosis.

What Chance Is There For Me To Develop Osteoporosis?

How Will I Know If I Am Already Osteoporotic?

Earlier a doctor diagnosed a person as having osteoporosis only after a fracture had taken place. Now however, bone density or thickness can be measured using a Bone Densitometre. The density of major bones like the hip or the spine are measured using a very low dose of X-ray. The results are then compared to healthy bone mass in an age matched comparison. The estimated risk of the actual presence of osteoporosis can be determined using this method, earlier and more accurately than an ordinary x-ray would.

How Can I Get A Bone Densitometry Done?

The latest version of densitometres is now available at Penang Adventist Hospital. All you need to do is make an appointment with the Radiology Department at the hospital.

What Should I Do Before The Procedure?

No preparation is required.  The whole procedure takes only 15-25 minutes and is painless, safe and sure. You will only need to change into a gown provided at the Radiology Department.

Prepared by Tan Jui Kok
Radiology Department Manager.