Bone density (1115)

Key points below


Your child’s scan is scheduled for (date) _____________ at (time) _________________ in the Imaging (Radiology) Department. 

Please stop at a Welcome desk for a badge and directions to Imaging, on the 1st floor of the Children’s Wisconsin - Milwaukee Hospital. 


What is a bone density test?

A bone mineral density test uses x-rays to show how thick, or dense your child’s bones are. This test is sometimes called a BMD or DEXA test. Knowing how strong your child’s bones are helps the doctor know if your child is at risk of getting a broken bone (fracture). The test is painless.  No shots are needed and nothing is swallowed.  The x-ray uses a very low dose of radiation.  

How do I prepare my child?

Be sure your child’s clothes do not have any metal on or in them. If you child does have metal on their clothing, they will be asked to change into a gown.
For 7 days before the test, your child should not have any:

CT contrast.
Barium. 
Nuclear Medicine exam.

How is the scan done?

When will the results be ready?

A doctor who has special training in reading x-rays, called a radiologist, will look at the pictures after the scan is done.  Your child's doctor will be given the results of the scan within 48 hours.  Your child’s doctor will then share the results with you.

ALERT

Call your child’s doctor, nurse, or clinic if you have any questions or concerns or if your child has special health care needs that were not covered by this information.