In the ever-evolving landscape of bone health, significant advancements are being made in diagnosing and managing osteoporosis. While valuable, traditional methods like the DEXA or DXA scan are being complemented and, in some cases, superseded by cutting-edge technologies such as REMS (Radiofrequency Echographic Multi Spectrometry). This technology was developed in the late 1990s and has aspects that make the results unreliable. The fear and anxiety these results create in women once they receive the results causes them to become very tentative in their movement and fearful that even walking can cause a fracture.

Something has to be done so women can feel safe to live their lives!

Let’s explore how REMS is revolutionizing bone health diagnostics and why many orthopedic surgeons advocate for this shift.

Understanding Osteoporosis and the Need for Accurate Diagnostics

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weakened bones more prone to fractures. It affects millions of people worldwide, particularly postmenopausal women. Early detection and accurate diagnosis are crucial in preventing and stopping bone loss to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.

The Limitations of DEXA Scans

• Bone Density Measurement: DEXA scans measure bone mineral density (BMD) to assess fracture risk. However, more than BMD is needed to give a complete picture of bone health.
• Accuracy Issues: Factors like patient positioning, varying machine calibration, and technician error can affect the accuracy of DEXA results.
• Lack of Bone Quality Assessment: DEXA does not evaluate bone quality, which is a critical component of bone strength and the actual risk of fracture.

The Emergence of REMS: A Better Alternative

What is REMS?

Radiofrequency Echographic Multi Spectrometry (REMS) is a non-invasive, radiation-free technology that provides a comprehensive assessment of bone quality and strength. Unlike DEXA, REMS evaluates both bone density and micro-architectural properties. It gives us information on the interior aspects of our bones which is the “toughness” factor.

Advantages of REMS Over DEXA

• Enhanced Accuracy: REMS offers precise measurements of bone density and quality, reducing the risk of false positives and negatives.
• Bone Quality Insight: REMS assesses bone microarchitecture, providing a more complete understanding of bone strength and fracture risk.
• Radiation-Free: REMS uses ultrasound waves, making it a safer option for repeated use, especially for patients requiring ongoing monitoring.
• On-the-spot AI results: The results are printed out immediately after the scan.

Orthopedic Surgeons Leading the Shift

Why Orthopedic Surgeons Prefer REMS

• Patient Safety: REMS’s radiation-free nature makes it an attractive option for both patients and healthcare providers concerned about cumulative radiation exposure.
• Enhanced Sensitivity: REMS demonstrated higher sensitivity in detecting subtle changes in bone quality that traditional methods might miss.
• Improved Surgical Planning: Surgeons have noted discrepancies between DEXA scan results and actual bone quality observed during surgery. REMS offers more accurate information, improving surgical planning and patient outcomes.

Listen to my interview with Dr. Nick Birch, Spinal Surgeon, on Stronger Bones Lifestyle Podcast below: