Bone mineral densitometry (also known as BMD, Bone Mineral Density or DEXA) is a safe, easy and non-invasive test that measures the mineral density (such as calcium) in the bones using a low energy x-ray. This test helps physicians detect osteoporosis (reduction in bone density), shows the effectiveness of treatment for osteoporosis and assesses the risk of developing fractures.
Location, Hours and Contact
Outpatient and Community Services Centre 2 Champagne Drive, North York, ON M3J 2C5
Hours Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Contact Tel: 416-756-6931 Fax: 416-756-6358
General site 4001 Leslie St, North York, ON M2K 1E1
Contact Tel: 416-756-6000
No preparation is required. We recommend wearing loose and comfortable clothing with no metal.
If your appointment is scheduled at OCSC, 2 Champagne Drive, please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment.
If your appointment is scheduled at NYGH General Site, 4001 Leslie St, please arrive 1 hour prior and register at the Main Registration Desk across from the Breast Diagnostic Centre (BDC)
You will be asked to fill out a questionnaire about your medical history, including family history of osteoporosis, diseases or conditions that you may have and medications that you are currently on.
Be sure to speak to the receptionist or technologist if there is any chance that you might be pregnant. In order to prevent radiation exposure to the fetus, bone density scans are not performed on pregnant people.
You should also notify the receptionist or technologist if you have had:
A barium x-ray in the last two weeks
A nuclear medicine scan within the last week
An injection of an x-ray dye within the last week.
Once you have finished filling out the questionnaire, your weight and height will be measured. The technologist will explain the procedure and set up for your scan.
You will not need to remove your clothes, but all metallic objects including jewelry should be removed.
The bone density machine will be positioned over your torso. We will ask you to change positions a few times while pictures are taken of your lower back and hips.
The entire scan takes about 15 minutes
You can return to normal activities immediately after the test. The results of your BMD will be sent to your physician within five to seven business days. Your physician will review the test results with you.
Your report can also be accessed through MyChart and PocketHealth two to three weeks after your test.
