Bone Mineral Densitometry (BMD) is a form of medical imaging which allows for assessment of the bone mineral content within the body using a DEXA machine.
Bone mineral density is important as reduction in bone density (osteopaenia, or in severe cases osteoporosis) increases the probability of fractures and broken bones.
Bone Mineral Densitometry can be performed at regular intervals to monitor bone mineral density levels and detect any changes.
Bone Mineral Densitometry is a quick, painless, non-invasive procedure. Procedures typically take 20 minutes from arrival to finish.
Whole Body Composition scans utilise the same DEXA technology as BMDs to accurately assess the distribution of bone, muscle and fat mass throughout the entire body.
Whole Body Composition scans allow for estimation of the total amount of skeletal muscle mass, and the assessment of sarcopaenia (reduced muscle mass).
Compared to other methods of assessment of body fat, Whole Body Composition scans provide accurate assessment of Total Body Fat percentage, as well as measures for health such as Visceral Adipose Tissue and Fat Mass Index.
Whole Body Composition can be beneficial for anyone seeking to know more about their body, and the results of the Whole Body Composition scan can be used to guide future health strategies.
Bone Mineral Densitometry tests generally take 20 minutes from start to finish. There is no preparation required for the test. We require you to wear comfortable clothing, avoiding any metal around the waistband if possible. Scans are performed on the lumbar spine and on the left hip as standard, which allows for estimation of the bone density throughout the body. On the day, we will get you to fill out a questionnaire to assess whether you are eligible for bulk billing via Medicare. In most cases, this scan will be bulk-billed. However, in the event the scan cannot be bulk billed, the scan is a $50 flat-fee ($30 if you hold a Pension or Health Care Card).
Whole Body Composition tests generally take 30 minutes from start to finish. There is no preparation required for the test. We require you to wear comfortable clothing, with no metal (buttons, zippers, studs, eyelets, drawstrings, underwires etc.), and you may be required to change into a gown. Your height and weight will be measured prior to the scan, and you will then lie down flat on the scanning bed. The scanning arm will then move up and down your body from one side to the other over the course of approximately 7 minutes. A standard BMD may also be performed if requested by your doctor. Whole Body Composition scans have a flat-fee of $90, and are not Medicare rebatable.