Best Bone Density Scan Clinics in Spain

Why Makes Spain a Good Option for Bone Density Scan?

Quality of Healthcare

Spain has a well-regulated and highly efficient healthcare system, often ranked among the best in Europe. What sets its clinics apart is strict adherence to European Union standards that ensure high levels of patient care.

The radiologists in the country are experts in conducting and interpreting DEXA scans to detect even subtle changes in bone density.

Modern DEXA Scanners

For bone health assessment in Spain, the following advanced DEXA scanners are available:

Affordability

One of the biggest advantages of having a bone density scan in Spain is the cost-effectiveness compared to other Western countries. Furthermore, these clinics offer affordable medical tourism packages for international patients that combine the following:

• Diagnostics
• Personalized treatment by orthopedists
• Aftercare services
• Accommodation
• Transfers

What to Look For in a Bone Density Scan Clinic

It’s crucial to choose the best bone density test center in Spain for accurate results. Here are some factors that can help you make an informed decision:

Advanced Equipment

The clinic you choose must use the latest DEXA machines, which provide detailed HD images and use less radiation to enhance both accuracy and safety. Furthermore, ensure the clinic regularly calibrates its scan machines for consistently precise outcomes.

Experienced Radiologists

Trained radiologists are another important aspect to consider when choosing a bone density clinic. They play a major role in the entire process, from scanning to interpreting the results. In addition, these radiologists have certifications from institutes like the European Society of Radiology, which indicates their expertise in the field.

Accreditations

Choosing an accredited diagnostic center is essential as it guarantees adherence to industry benchmarks for accuracy, safety, and patient care. Here are some of the common accreditations to look for:

• ISO
• Radiological Society Accreditation
• JCI

Reputation

The reputation of the clinic matters, especially for testing something as critical as bone health. To evaluate this, look for positive reviews and testimonials by patients for the clinic and its staff.

Comprehensive Services

A bone density scan is just one part of managing bone health. Thus, you must look for clinics that provide comprehensive services that go beyond the scan itself, including:

• Consultation with a bone health specialist
• Follow-up scans for regular monitoring
• Treatment plans and lifestyle recommendations

Best Bone Density Scan Clinics in Spain

Quironsalud Dexeus University Hospital

Located in Barcelona, the Quironsalud Dexeus Hospital is a JCI and ISO-accredited medical center. For diagnostic procedures, the hospital has around 10 ultrasound machines and 3 MRI scanners.

Moreover, there are 450 qualified specialists, including expert radiologists, who perform procedures like bone densitometry and interpret accurate results. To help international patients, the hospital provides multilingual facilities, food, and accommodation assistance.

Clínica Universidad de Navarra

Clínica Universidad Navarra is the best private hospital in Spain. Its contributions to diagnostic imaging include introducing PET-CT scan technology in the country. The hospital’s orthopedics department has been diagnosing and treating bone conditions for five decades now.

Besides performing bone density scans with high-quality DEXA scanners, orthopedists offer a comprehensive treatment plan and rehab services based on your results.

Hospital Quironsalud Torrevieja

Hospital Quironsalud Torrevieja is a multidisciplinary hospital accredited by JCI and ISO 9001. The hospital’s modern equipment, like DEXA machines, linear accelerators, CAT and PET-CT scanners, makes it stand out.

In addition, it is associated with the Spanish Society of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, which reflects the hospital’s commitment to maintaining high standards in orthopedic care.

As an international patient, you can expect to receive services like:

• Multilingual staff
• VIP private rooms
• Accommodation assistance
• Airport transfer
• Car rentals

Preparation Tips For a Bone Density Scan

Clinics in Spain offer simple, quick, and non-invasive DEXA scans. However, your doctor will ask you to follow these guidelines for a smooth experience and accurate results:

Clothing Guidelines

You should wear loose and comfortable clothing without any metal components like buttons, zippers, or hooks. Metal objects can interfere with the scan and produce inaccurate results. Many hospitals offer hospital gowns to avoid this.

Dietary Considerations

Your doctor will advise you to stop taking medicines having calcium, such as antacids or multivitamins at least 24 hours before the scan. The same goes for calcium rich foods like yogurt, cheeses, etc. No fasting is required so you can eat normally on the day of the test.

Things Your Doctor Should Know About Before the DEXA Scan

Before undergoing a bone density scan, you must inform your doctor of the following things to ensure precise results:

Medications

Certain medicines can interfere with the accuracy of your bone density scan. Therefore, your doctor must know about any medication you are taking. They will guide you on when to stop them before the scan. These especially include:

• Bisphosphonates or other osteoporosis drugs
• Corticosteroids like prednisone or cortisone
• Thyroid hormones
• Blood thinners
• Diuretics

Pregnancy

Your doctor should also be aware if you are pregnant. While pregnancy does not directly affect the accuracy of results, it’s important to inform so that very low radiation levels are used to protect the fetus.

Barium Testing

If you have had a recent imaging test involving barium, like barium swallow or barium enema, tell your doctor about it. This can affect the results of your DEXA scan as barium remains in the body for several days and might interfere with the scan’s ability to assess bone density accurately.

What Does a DEXA Scan Report Look Like?

A typical DEXA scan report has the following details:

How to Interpret T-Score

• 1.0 or above: A T-score of 1 or higher value indicates normal bone density. It means your bones are healthy and strong.
• -1.0 to -2.5: If your bone density falls within this range, you are most likely to have osteopenia. This means your bone density is lower than normal but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis. Osteopenia increases your risk of fractures, and your doctor might suggest lifestyle changes and calcium or vitamin D supplements to manage it.
• -2.5 or lower: A T-score of -2.5 or below signifies osteoporosis, which means you are at a high risk of getting fractures, especially in areas like the hip, spine, and wrist. It requires proper medical treatment, including medications that help increase bone density.

How to Interpret Z-Score

• Above -2.0: It is considered within the expected range for your age and requires no further treatment.
• Below -2.0: This Z-score suggests that your bone density is lower than it should be, which raises concerns about an underlying medical condition leading to bone loss.

T-score is mostly used for diagnosis of conditions like osteoporosis in older adults. While Z-score helps identify potential secondary causes of bone loss like hormonal imbalances or long-term use of medicines like corticosteroids.

Summing Up

Spain stands out for its high-quality diagnostic tools, which also include cutting-edge DEXA scanners to determine bone density. The country is attracting international patients for its affordable healthcare services without any compromises on the quality of care.

If you also want to test your bone density and are looking for the best clinic in Spain, contact the medical coordinator at ClinicsonCall. They will help you find the one that best suits your healthcare needs and budget.