So what exactly is Echolight? The Echolight with REMS Technology (Radiofrequency Echographic Multi Spectrometry) is a safe, radiation-free way to test bone strength and quality, in addition to density. This gives a more accurate assessment of the current state of your bones, and is much more reliable than a DXA scan.
Most bone density tests, known as DXA (pronounced DEXA) scans, have proven to be error-prone and incapable of measuring bone strength or real fracture risk. Since we began healing bones in 2011, we have seen many inaccurate DXA scans that have resulted in unnecessary prescriptions. With REMS, now we know that we can help our clients make good decisions with accurate information.
REMS by Echolight
Designed and manufactured in Italy, REMS technology has been approved by the FDA for use in the USA for bone density diagnostics. By using sound waves to measure the specific signatures reflecting off each bone surface, the Echolight scan produces a very accurate assessment of BMD (bone mineral density) in addition to bone quality (micro-architecture and content). The research has indicated that low bone quality is a much bigger threat to fracture risk than low bone density.
FAQ's
How is REMS different than DXA?
REMS uses ultrasound to produce both density and fragility scores vs. DXA which uses harmful x-rays to produce only a density score.
What is a Fragility Score?
This is an assessment of the true quality of your bone tissue, rather than just a test showing how much bone tissue is in a given space.
How long does the test take?
The appointment for the test only takes 30 minutes, and for your first scan we will include a 30 minute consult with our clinic director to explain the report.
Why should I do this if I have a DXA?
Test scores from DXA have been proven to be inaccurate in many cases. REMS will provide you with reliable data so that you can make good decisions about your care.
How much does all of this cost?
Your first scan costs $325 and includes a 30 minute consult with our clinic director. Some insurance companies will provide full reimbursements upon approval.
Available
in Atlanta
(404) 998-5507
How to prepare for your Echolight REMS scanning procedure and what to expect
- Avoid a large meal at least 4-5 hours before your appointment to prevent gas and food blockage.
- Wear clothing that is easy to remove for exposure of the abdomen (from ribs to below belly button) and upper thigh.
- You will be in a private setting with your technician who will provide you with a cloth drape to help cover as you expose these regions.
- You will be positioned face up on the exam table as the technician applies ultrasound gel to the region being probed.
- The ultrasound probe is then applied to the region, sometimes with some degree of force to help identify the necessary areas.
- Because Echolight is very sensitive and will only produce results when all criteria are met, it may take more than one scan to produce your results.
- The Echolight software will generate a report within 60-90 seconds where you will see a T-score, Z-score, Fragility score, and BMI rating.
- Your report will then be sent to your primary care physician who can help you with an official interpretation of your results.
PLEASE NOTE: The technician doing your scan does not read or interpret the results of your scan. They can tell you the scores that the scan produces, but they cannot answer any questions related to your results or provide medical advice.