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BONE DENSITY STUDY
Childbearing Age?
Important: If you are a woman of childbearing age (13-50) and there is a chance that you are pregnant, please inform your physician.
Enter The Hospital:
Enter through Baldwin Area Medical Center's main entrance and report to the Patient Registration Desk 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment. After registering, you will be directed to the Radiology Department.
BEFORE YOUR EXAM:
Prepare for your exam as instructed. Wear clothing with no metal closures, such as zippers. You may have to remove your watch or other metal items that can affect exam results. You may be asked to wear a gown. This test takes just 15 to 30 minutes. But you will need extra time to check in.
LET THE TECHNOLOGIST KNOW:
For the success of the exam and for your safety, tell the technologist if you:
 Are pregnant or think you may be.
Have any metal in the part of your body being imaged, such as spinal fusion rods or hip replacement.
Have had a recent nuclear medicine scan or a barium enema.
Have a severely curved spine, have had spinal surgery, or cannot lie on your back.
You may be asked about your overall health or any medications you take.
WHAT IS A BONE DENSITY STUDY?
A bone density study measures the calcium content (density) of your bones. A scanner that emits tiny amounts of radiation is used for this exam. Scans of your low back, hip, or forearm are most often taken. You are having this exam because you may be at risk for osteoporosis (loss of bone mass). This exam can also show whether your medications are slowing down bone loss.
DURING YOUR EXAM:
You will be asked to lie on a table or sit down. For part of the test, your lower legs may be raised on a platform. This will help ensure that the images taken will be clear. A scanner arm will be above you. This arm will move back and forth over the part of your body being scanned. During the exam, the technologist will stand or sit nearby. You will be asked to stay still.
FOR BEST RESULTS:
Follow instructions to help prevent the need for a second exam. Remain still and do not talk while the images are taken.
AFTER YOUR EXAM:
When your exam is over, you may need to wait briefly while the images are reviewed. You can return to your normal routine. In most cases, you will not get your results the day of your exam. Your physician will let you know when the results are ready.
EXAM TIPS:
Follow any instructions you were given about taking medications or food supplements. Be ready to discuss your overall health. Bring a list of medications you take. Wear clothing with no metal closures.
BILLING:
You will receive two bills for your radiology examination. Baldwin Area Medical Center will bill for the examination. The Radiologist, who is a doctor with specialized training in radiology, will bill separately for his interpretation, consultation with the physician and report.
We thank you for allowing us to serve you and welcome any questions or comments you may have.
If you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment, please call Baldwin Area Medical Center at (715) 684-3311.
PATIENTS RIGHTS:
As a patient you have the right to know about and discuss with your family, your doctor and nurse exactly what type of treatment and care you will be receiving.
The healthcare team of Baldwin Area Medical Center accepts the responsibility to ensure that you are adequately informed about all procedures. We hope this information will help.
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