In 2008 our clinic became an infusion site for the drug Aclasta. Aclasta is a new therapy for patients with osteoporosis. Instead of taking a regime of pills on a continuing basis, patients receive this new medication once a year by an intravenous infusion done by our nurses. Our site handles patients referred in from various parts of central and east Toronto - not just our own patients. If you’re interested in learning more about Aclasta, speak to your family doctor to find out if it is right for you.
 

Osteoporosis is a disease of the bones characterized by a progressive loss of bone tissue, which can result in an increase in the risk of fractures, often from minor falls or spills that would not normally result in a fracture.

A routine x-ray examination can reveal osteoporosis, but by the time this can be detected using a conventional x-ray, the disease may have progressed significantly. Fortunately, other tests are available to diagnose the disease in earlier stages so that treatment can begin.

The best technique currently available in measuring bone mass is dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). This test measures the bone mass in two important areas: the hip and the spine. The test is painless and simple to conduct and usually takes less than ten minutes. DEXA is very safe - the radiation exposure is minimal, and the test is very precise. DEXA is also useful in tracking the progression of osteoporosis.

In 2008 we converted to digital imaging versus photo processing of films/x-rays. This change will allow for a more rapid turn-around of information, better storage, easier comparisons and the ability to integrate with electronic medical records.
 

Appointments are necessary.

What you need to do before your appointment:

• Bring any documentation your family doctor gave you including the referral requisition.
• Bring your provincial health card.
• No recent (within 72 hours) barium or nuclear medicine scans.
• Please wear loose comfortable clothes without zippers or buttons.

Picking up your x-rays: Your x-rays will now be available on a CD (compact disk). Please call one day in advance so we can transfer the data onto the CD and have it ready for you - Tel: (416) 461-9471. Please note that there is a small charge for the production of the CD. When placing your order, please verify the charge for your CD.