Lipodensitometry

1. Description

Lipodensitometry is an imaging test designed to accurately measure the amount and distribution of adipose tissue, particularly in the abdominal region. It assesses visceral fat (around the organs) and subcutaneous fat to estimate long-term cardiometabolic risk (type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome).

This test is generally performed for:

Patients with abdominal obesity

Individuals with metabolic risk factors (hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes)

• Patients undergoing follow-up after bariatric surgery
• Patients being monitored for sarcopenia or muscle loss
• Patients requiring a precise assessment of body composition in a clinical setting

2. The Test

ARRIVAL

Upon arrival, you will need to check in at the front desk and open a file if this is your first visit.

You must have the following with you:

• Your valid health insurance card
• A medical prescription signed by your primary care physician containing the relevant clinical information

Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time.

THE EXAM

Bone mineral density testing is performed using a dual-energy X-ray (DXA) machine.

The procedure is quick and simple:

We will take your weight and height.

• The technologist will position your body.
• No contrast injection is required.
• The machine uses a low dose of X-rays to

The software allows you to:

• Quantify visceral fat area
• Measure subcutaneous fat
• Assess abdominal muscle mass

The radiologist performs the final interpretation and sends a detailed report to your doctor.

DURATION

Image acquisition takes about 10 minutes. Allow 30 to 45 minutes in total at the clinic.

3. Apointment

This exam is performed by appointment only.

You can send your prescription by fax or email. Our team will contact you to schedule your exam.

4. Preparation

• 14 days before your appointment: Avoid any radiology or nuclear medicine exams that involve contrast agents.
• 48 hours before your appointment: Stop taking calcium supplements or multivitamins.
• 4 hours before your appointment: Do not eat or drink anything except water.
• At least 24 hours before your appointment: Avoid intense physical activity, such as weight training and strenuous exercise, as this could affect fluid distribution in the body.

Make sure you are not pregnant at the time of your appointment.

5. Costs

Private exam.

6. Results

The exam is usually interpreted by the radiologist within a few days of the procedure.

Your doctor will receive the report within 2 to 5 business days and can discuss the results and recommendations tailored to your situation with you.