1. What is Bone Measurement (Bone Densitometry)?

Bone density measurement, also known as bone densitometry in medical literature, is a test that measures bone density and assesses bone health. This procedure is used specifically to determine the risk of osteoporosis and osteoporosis. Bone density measurement helps predict fracture risk by calculating bone mineral density.

2. How to Measure Bone?

Bone measurements are typically performed with a DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) device. During the procedure, the patient lies on the device's horizontal platform, and measurements are taken from areas such as the spine, hip, or wrist using low-dose radiation. The procedure is painless and requires no needles or incisions.

3. How Long Does Bone Measurement Take?

The procedure typically takes 10-20 minutes. Depending on the area to be measured, the time may be slightly longer if the whole body is being measured. The patient can lie completely relaxed during the procedure, and the device will automatically perform the measurement.

4. In Which Diseases Are Bone Measurements Taken?

Bone measurement is particularly important for patients at high risk of osteoporosis, osteopenia, and bone fractures. Measurements are recommended for postmenopausal women, those receiving long-term corticosteroids, those with rheumatic diseases, and those with chronic diseases affecting bone metabolism.

5. For which complaints and to whom is bone measurement performed?

It's recommended for people with back, waist, or hip pain, a history of bone fractures, or a family history of osteoporosis. It's also a target group for women and men over 50, postmenopausal women, and young adults at risk for bone health.

6. Bone Measurement Result Interpretation

Results are evaluated using a T-score and a Z-score. The T-score compares to a healthy 30-year-old adult, while the Z-score evaluates according to age and gender. A T-score of -1 and above is interpreted as normal, -1 to -2.5 as osteopenia, and -2.5 and below as osteoporosis.

7. How Often Should Bone Scans Be Performed?

For individuals in at-risk groups, measurements are recommended every two years. For those diagnosed with osteoporosis, these measurements can be repeated every one to two years to assess response to treatment.

8. Disadvantages and Risks of Bone Measurement

The procedure involves minimal radiation and has no serious side effects. It is not recommended for pregnant women. In rare cases, incorrect results may occur due to device or measurement errors.

9. Advantages of Bone Measurement

It offers the advantage of being a painless and quick procedure, detecting the risk of osteoporosis early on and predicting the likelihood of fractures. It is a reliable method for treatment planning and follow-up.

10. Alternative Methods of Bone Measurement

Methods such as computed tomography (CT) and ultrasound also provide information about bone density, but DEXA is considered the gold standard.

11. Areas of Use for Bone Measurement

It is used to evaluate the effects of osteoporosis, osteopenia, bone fractures, hormonal disorders, and chronic diseases on bones. It is also included as a routine test in bone health monitoring programs.

12. Bone Measurement SSI and Private Insurance Coverage

Bone scans are covered for patients in risk groups at hospitals affiliated with the Social Security Institution (SGK). Private insurance holders may cover some or all of the cost, depending on their policy coverage.

13. Who is Not Suitable for Bone Measurement?

It is not recommended for pregnant women or patients who cannot move during measurement. Furthermore, use of the device may be limited for those who cannot lie down due to serious illness.

14. Bone Measurement Current Prices

Bone measurement prices vary among private hospitals in Ankara. However, it can be performed free of charge at centers affiliated with the Social Security Institution (SGK), subject to certain conditions.

15. In which department is bone measurement performed?

It's performed in Radiology or Interventional Radiology departments. The doctor determines the measurement location based on the patient's risk profile.

16. What does a bone scan reveal?

Provides information about bone density, fracture risk, osteoporosis or osteopenia status, bone mineral deficiencies, and response to treatment.

17. Where can I get bone measurement done in Ankara?

Ankara Magnet Hospital offers state-of-the-art DEXA devices for bone measurement. It can also be used in university and training hospitals, as well as private laboratories.

18. Same-Day Bone Measurement Magnet Hospital Imaging and Appointment

Same-day bone scans are available at Magnet Hospital by appointment. Appointments can be made online or by phone at 0312 212 80 80.

20. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is bone measurement suitable for?
It is suitable for people over 50, postmenopausal women, chronic patients, and individuals at risk of bone fractures.

2. How often should bone scans be performed?
It can be done every 1-2 years in at-risk groups and annually in those diagnosed with osteoporosis.

3. What should the Z score be for bone measurement?
A Z score of -2 and below requires caution and is evaluated according to age group.

4. What bone measurement is dangerous?
A T score of -2.5 and below is considered osteoporosis and carries a high risk of fracture.

5. Which department should you go to for bone measurement?
You should contact the Radiology or Interventional Radiology departments.

6. At what age should bone measurement be performed?
It can be performed after age 50 in at-risk groups, or at a younger age in those at early risk.

7. In which hospitals are bone measurements performed?
It can be performed in modern centers such as universities, training hospitals, private hospitals, and Magnet Hospitals.

8. Is bone measurement taken on an empty stomach or a full stomach?
There is no specific fasting requirement; it can be done as part of a daily routine.

9. Where is bone measurement done?
It can be done at radiology centers, private laboratories, or Magnet Hospitals.

10. What should be the bone measurement?
A T score of -1 and above is considered normal.

11. Which doctor requests bone densitometry?
Usually, an internist or physical therapist requests it.