Comparison of DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) and Omnisense ultrasound bone strength scans.

DEXA is the X-Ray test that is presently used in many hospitals  Omnisense is the new Ultrasound technology used by Osteoporosis Check and many other clinics.

DEXA measures mineral density of bone.  Ultrasound measures bone strength density, elasticity, cortical thickness and micro-architecture.  Which is better for assessing risk of fracture?

DEXA is X-ray invasive (low dose but still X-ray).  Ultrasound is less invasive (considered safe enough to use on unborn babies).

DEXA is far more operator dependent for consistent results.  Ultrasound displays excellent sensitivity having less than a 1% error.  Standard X-ray requires a 1/3 loss of bone to show osteoporosis and is not reproducible.

DEXA is not necessarily consistent from one machine to another, or even after major repairs on the same machine.  Ultrasound measures a constant, the speed of sound along the cortex of a bone and is consistent between different machines making it an excellent choice for follow up testing.

The ultrasound test is completely painless and requires no preparation; you just sit in a comfortable office chair for the procedure.  The DEXA requires preparation for the X-ray and getting on the X-ray table.  Positioning is far more critical with the DEXA for a reproducible result.

Certain bone conditions may give abnormal interpretations with the DEXA.  The DEXA may read a high bone mass density (usually good) but the bone may be weak.  Ultrasound measures bone strength and condition.  It is unlikely to give abnormal information

DEXA usually measures only weight bearing bones.  With the Omnisense ultrasound we measure a weight bearing and a non-weight bearing bone, which gives a truer indication of overall bone strength and fracture risk.

DEXA does not take into account bone size or architecture.

For reasons listed of the above, the Sunlight Omnisense ultrasound device is fast becoming the measurement of choice in assessing fracture risk.

Call Osteoporosis Check at 1-306-359-3334 for your examination today.