Lipodensitometry

What is lipodensitometry?

Lipodensitometry is based on the same technology as bone densitometry: dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. A very low-intensity X-ray beam scans the entire body. Detectors measure how the different tissues absorb the radiation. Software then analyzes the data and distinguishes three compartments: bone mass, muscle mass, and fat mass.

The exam makes it possible to:

• Quantify visceral fat (located around the abdominal organs);

• Measure subcutaneous fat (located under the skin);

• Assess muscle mass;

• Track changes in body composition over time.

The radiation dose used is extremely low, and no contrast injection is required.

Why have a lipodensitometry exam?

A lipodensitometry exam provides a precise assessment of your body composition, beyond what standard anthropometric measurements such as weight or body mass index can offer.

This exam is mainly indicated in the following situations:

• Abdominal obesity, to quantify the proportion of visceral fat and assess the associated metabolic risk;

• Cardiometabolic risk factors, particularly in the presence of high blood pressure, dyslipidemia (abnormal blood lipid levels), or type 2 diabetes;

• Metabolic syndrome, to refine the evaluation of body composition and guide management;

• Follow-up after bariatric surgery, to measure changes in fat mass and muscle mass;

• Sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass), to quantify muscle loss and guide therapeutic interventions;

• Monitoring a weight loss or nutritional rehabilitation program, to assess the effects on body composition in addition to weight loss.

This exam provides objective data that other assessment techniques cannot obtain with the same level of precision.

To understand why BMI alone is not enough to assess body composition, see our article Lipodensitometry and BMI: What Are the Differences and Why Does It Matter?

How should you prepare for a lipodensitometry exam?

Lipodensitometry is a simple, quick exam that requires following a few precautions to ensure reliable results.

14 days before the exam: avoid any radiology or nuclear medicine exam involving contrast agents. Residual traces of these products may interfere with body composition analysis.

48 hours before the exam: stop taking calcium supplements and multivitamins. These substances absorb X-rays and may distort the measurements.

24 hours before the exam: avoid intense physical activity, such as weight training or strenuous workouts. Intense physical exertion temporarily changes fluid distribution in the body and may influence the results.

48 hours before the exam: do not consume any food or drink, except water.

On the day of the exam, remember to bring your medical prescription and your valid health insurance card. This exam uses X-rays and is contraindicated during pregnancy. Be sure to inform the team if you are pregnant or think you may be.

How do you book a lipodensitometry appointment at Radiologie Dix30 clinic?

Lipodensitometry is performed by appointment only. You can send your prescription by fax to 450-904-0405 or by email to info@radiologiedix30.com. Our team will schedule your appointment according to your availability.

The clinic is open 365 days a year: Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

How does a lipodensitometry exam work?

Lipodensitometry is performed at Radiologie Dix30 clinic, located in Brossard, on Montreal’s South Shore. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time for reception check-in and to open your file if this is your first visit.

Here is how the exam takes place:

• Welcome and registration: after presenting your health insurance card and prescription, our team will give you a questionnaire and measure your weight and height before the exam begins;

• Positioning: the technologist helps you get settled on the exam table, lying on your back. You may keep your clothes on, provided you are not wearing any metal objects. If needed, a gown will be provided;

• Image acquisition: the arm of the device moves slowly over you to scan the entire body. The technologist supervises the exam from the control room;

• Duration: the scan takes about 10 minutes. Allow 30 to 45 minutes in total for the entire visit;

• Return to activities: you can resume your usual activities as soon as the exam is over. No special precautions are required afterward.

Cost of a lipodensitometry exam

Lipodensitometry is a private exam not covered by RAMQ. The fees are the patient’s responsibility. Contact our team at 450-904-0404 or by email at info@radiologiedix30.com to find out the cost of the exam.

Results

The exam is interpreted by the radiologist in the days following its completion. A detailed report is sent to your referring physician within 2 to 5 days. Your doctor will contact you to share the results and discuss recommendations tailored to your situation.