CT Bone Density

Quantitative Computed Tomography (QCT) is a fast, non-invasive bone mineral density exam (BMD), which utilizes Computed Tomography (CT or “CAT”) scanner technology. QCT detects low bone mass and monitors the effects of bone mass therapy in patients undergoing treatment.

During the exam, your spine and hip are scanned for diagnosis of low bone mass (osteopenia) or osteoporosis. QCT is the only 3-D bone density exam, meaning it isolates the metabolically-active soft (trabecular) bone in the spine for analysis, whereas other bone density exams combine both hard (cortical) and soft bone. Since soft bone is affected earlier and to a greater degree than hard bone, QCT is likely to detect low bone mass earlier than other bone mineral density exams.

The National Osteoporosis Foundation estimates 55% of people age 50 and older in the United States have osteoporosis or low bone mass. Of these, more than 14 million men and 30 million women are affected by this condition.

Osteoporosis is treatable and preventable. Early diagnosis, therapeutic intervention and the use of bone density testing to diagnose and monitor response to therapy have greatly improved the prognosis for patients. QCT is the most advanced way to find out if you have low bone mass, and assess your risk for osteoporosis.

During the exam – what to expect

You will be asked to lie fully clothed on a table.
QCT uses x-rays; however, the amount of radiation required is less than a mammogram.
BMD is measured at both the spine and hip since bone mineralization is not uniform throughout your body. Therefore, while some skeletal sites may be normal, others may be osteoporotic and prone to fractures.
QCT exams are completed in approximately 15 minutes.

After the exam – what to expect

A detailed report of your bone mineral density assessment will be sent directly to your physician with recommendations for the appropriate management.
Your doctor will consider this information in context of your overall care, and talk with you about the results.

What is a bone density exam?

The bone density examination is a method used to determine how much mineral is in a person’s bones. This number can then be compared to a similar reference population to determine whether a patient has osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease of low bone mineral content and results in the development of spinal compression, hip and wrist fractures with little or no trauma. Once the bone density is determined, the value is converted into a score that reflects the relative risk of osteoporosis and the risk of sustaining fractures. This “T-score” can be used to assign the relative risk of future fracture and also be used to monitor a person’s response to therapy.

How is this examination performed?

There are different methods of determining bone density, but our facility utilizes DEXA scanning (dual energy x-ray absorptiometry) which is considered the gold standard test.

The DEXA examination takes about thirty minutes. The patient rests, without moving, on a padded table while a small arm-like device passes over the patient.
This emits a very small amount of radiation, with two different energy levels, to accurately assess the difference of bone density. A technologist reviews the data on a computer monitor before printing the information for our radiologist to interpret.

Is the examination safe?

The examination uses a small amount of radiation, but this is less than a single chest x-ray. It is considered safe and will not result in side effects. There are no injections.
If you are or may be pregnant, please inform the technologist.

What should I wear?

You should wear comfortable lightweight clothing. Metallic objects on a belt, snaps or zippers may need to be removed. If so, we will ask you to change into a patient gown.

How long will it take?

The entire examination should take no more than thirty minutes. There is a medical history survey you will provide that will take about five minutes.

What can be expected after the exam?

You will notice no physical changes after the examination. A return to normal activity is expected.

When will my physician receive my results?

Your physician will receive the results, including a graphic display of your progress and the interpretation by a WRA radiologist, in about two days. Our report to your physician may include recommendations for follow-up, diet or physical therapy.

What are my risks for developing osteoporosis ?

The typical risk factors include: family history, female, Caucasian race, poor calcium intake, poor dietary vitamin D intake, low estrogen levels, small or thin body build, lack of activity.

Who should have this examination?

These are the general recommendations, but you should discuss the need for this examination with your physician, as this is not a comprehensive list.

Women over 65.
Women under 65 with risk factors for osteoporosis.
Women or men with non-traumatic fractures of wrist, spine or hip.
Women who are deciding on estrogen hormone therapy at menopause
Patients who are being treated for osteoporosis and need follow-up

This procedure is performed at the 1960 location only.