Bone Density Test results

I just had my first bone density test run at the request of my PCP. She ordered it to get a baseline evaluation because of my RNY. Since I am 44 years old it was a bit early but with hypothyroidism and the absorption issues we face she felt it was a good idea to go ahead and check it. I am almost 20 months out and do take my calcium as required. I am HAPPY to report that my spine level was high normal and my hip was normal. We are very pleased with these results. Lisa

I'm 50 and mine showed osteopenia (bone thinning) both in the lumbar spine and the femoral head. Not bad enough for osteoporosis, but not normal. I had the first test a year ago and a repeat last December, and they were identical, which is a good thing. I faithfully take my calcium and I also started taking Fosamax each week to make sure nothing gets worse. Sue O.

Same question... Did you receive a CT scan? I have no insurance and was seeking a bone density test. Somebody was going to test my ankle and I just didn't t hink that was sufficient for my needs. Though if you have insurance, the procedure was covered... curious if you know the costs yet?

I had 2 DEXA scans for the bone densitometry testing. I had the tests at 2 different clinics, and both tested the lumbar spine and the femoral head/neck (where leg attaches to the hip). I don't know if a DEXA scan is a type of CT scan or not. Both were covered by my insurance company, but I don't recall what the price was for either of them, sorry. Sue O.

That's great news Lisa. I am 47 and had my first bone desnsity test last year. I, too, am hypothyroid. I showed borderline osteopenia in the hip and high normal in the spine. Of course since this was my first one there is no way to tell if these results have anything to do with wls. I have taken my calium religiously since surgery so hopefully it is something I had a problem with before. I plan on getting tested every year.

Lynda, I have similar results on my scan last year. Did your Dr say that you may be able to reverse the hip results by doing a lot of skeleton exercises...(example walking on pavements or hard surfaces). Mine did and told me to get another scan in two years. I try and do all calcuim and vitamins..some days I slip. Most of the time I do them well. I don't know if my problem was there before WLS but I will be quite interested in seeing if there is any improvement on numbers on the next scan. Debbie

She did suggest more exercise to bulk up the hip area but not anything specific. Thanks for the tip !!! We've got to work together to keep the wheelchairs at bay ! Lisa

Did you receive a CT scan? I have no insurance and was seeking a bone density test. Somebody was going to test my ankle and I just didn't t hink that was sufficient for my needs. Though if you have insurance, the procedure was covered... curious if you know the costs yet?

I have no idea how much it cost as I haven't received any billing on it yet. I will post when I find out !

My surgeon does a bone density test before surgery and annually afterwards. I am 60 years old so you'd expect problems, but mine actually increased at my 1 year post-op and again increased slightly at my 2 year post-op test. Fortunately for me I am way above average for my age group. I've never been a milk drinker but I am faithful about taking my calcium daily. I take (2) Citracal at least once a day and either Citracal, Tums, Viactin the second time. Ok I'll confess sometimes I have 2-3 extra Tums or Viactin because they taste good.