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Bone Densitometry

With this examination the density, i.e. the amount of mineral salts, of the bone is determined. The word osteo-densitometry, is derived partly from Greek and partly from Latin. The Greek words osteo and metrie can be translated as bone and measurement. "Densus" is the Latin word for density.

 

There are various methods to determine the bone density. The largest part is based on the x-ray examination. For this the "two spectrum-method is used to measure bone density, working with different radiation energies. The ray is weakened to a certain extent by the bone which can be worked out with the two-spectrum-method. With this calculation the doctor is able to draw conclusions as to the density of the bone. A computer tomographic scanning as well as the bone-density measuring via ultrasound are also frequently used methods. On the x-ray picture only bone loss with a density reduction of more than 30% are visible. That is why this method is not suitable for an early diagnosis of osteoporosis. As for now the bone density measuring is only paid for by the state insurance companies in the case of suspected osteoporosis and if there is at least a fracture.