Bone scans have proved useful in detecting fractures, infections, inflammation, and even many kinds of bone cancers. Bone scans are considered by many as a form of instant snapshot of bone status. These scans are also known as BMD test (bone mineral density) and are used to detect the amounts of bone mass present and to evaluate its density. All bone scans are considered to be painless and noninvasive.

The physician will give the patient a intravenous injection of bone radiotracer. Depending on the exact nature of the problem, the patient may have some early images taken. The patient will then have a series of images taken approximately three hours after the injection. If the patient's problem is localized to one area, imaging may be specific to that area. Otherwise, a total body scan is performed.

The bone scans below show normal bone and Osteoporotic bone.