The bone density test is costly and not very accurate.

When it comes to medical devices used in conventional medicine, higher cost doesn't always equate to better quality. The expensive bone scan designed to assess bone density and osteoporosis risk is significantly pricier than the traditional scan. However, recent studies indicate that it is notoriously unreliable and exposes patients to higher levels of radiation.

Here are the key points to consider...

When screening individuals for bone fragility, doctors typically use dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) to measure bone mineral density.

DXA, also known as DEXA, is a specialized CT scan that assesses the mineral content of bones in specific areas of the body, such as the lower arm, spine, and hip. Following the measurement of bone density, your bone strength is compared to others in your age group and younger individuals to calculate your fracture risk and other bone-related issues. This information helps determine the appropriate treatment to enhance bone strength and prevent fractures.

Why You Have a Choice in Bone Scans

DXA has been the standard method for bone mineral density testing since 1987 and is endorsed by experts as the best approach to estimating osteoporosis risk and bone fractures. The World Health Organization considers it the most reliable test.¹

According to a review by medical researchers from King's College London School of Medicine and Guy's Hospital, DXA tests are highly reliable for predicting fracture risk, targeting anti-fracture treatment, and monitoring patient responses to treatment.²

Despite its reliability, many healthcare providers are opting for a new and less dependable bone scan.

This alternative scan, known as quantitative computed tomography (QCT), costs three times more than the traditional scan and exposes patients to up to 3,000 times more radiation than a DXA test.

Consider the magnitude of this - up to 3,000 times more radiation than the standard bone density scan!

Although the reasons for the preference of this less accurate scan are unclear, some experts suggest that changes in reimbursement rates for scans could be a significant factor.

According to an analysis by MedPage Today, Medicare claims for QCT scans are increasing annually. Physicians can receive three times the reimbursement for a QCT scan compared to a DXA scan when seeking Medicare reimbursement.³

False Positives For Severe Osteoporosis

Regrettably, besides the significantly higher radiation exposure from QCT scans, these tests often yield false readings that suggest severe osteoporosis.

As noted by Bart Clarke, M.D., a specialist in bone and mineral metabolism at the Mayo Clinic, patients who undergo QCT scans are frequently misinformed about having severe osteoporosis and are advised to start medication. However, subsequent DXA scans often reveal that the initial QCT results were inaccurate and that the patients' bones are not as weak as previously indicated.⁴

My Takeaway

The key message here is that as you age, it's wise to undergo a bone mineral density test to assess your bone health. Osteoporosis can pose serious risks, such as life-threatening fractures and mobility issues.

If you decide to undergo a scan, insist on a DXA unless your healthcare provider has a valid reason for recommending a QCT. This ensures more accurate results and significantly lower radiation exposure. For most individuals, there appears to be no justification for opting for a QCT scan.