Frequently Asked Questions
About REMS Technology
What is Echolight REMS technology and is it the same as a DXA scan?
REMS (Radiofrequency Echographic Multi Spectrometry) is an ultrasound technology used to evaluate bone mineral density (BMD) and bone quality or strength. Combining the BMD and fragility score, the fracture risk matrix provides a 5-year fracture risk level. This medical advancement is a fully diagnostic, radiation-free densitometer measuring the Lumber Vertebrae and proximal femur. REMS gives information such as bone mineral density which is the same type of information from a DXA scan. In addition to bone mineral density (BMD), our Echolight ultrasound gives information on bone quality and quantifies it as a Fragility Score. There is a software package that can be added to a DXA machine. This software package is called a trabecular bone score (TBS) which provides information on the quality of bone. The software is not standard on the DXA. More technical information about REMS is available at Echolight’s website (see question below).
Is REMS better than DEXA?
In short, Yes. A significant advantage of REMS technology is its ability to evaluate both Bone Mineral Density (BMD) and bone quality (Fragility Score). Unlike DXA, which needs additional software to assess bone quality and is limited to the lumbar spine, REMS covers both BMD and bone quality comprehensively. European studies show high correlation between REMS and DXA BMD. REMS offers superior accuracy, sensitivity to bone mass changes, and diagnostic reproducibility. The Fragility Score is better at predicting fracture risk, enabling earlier diagnosis and more accurate monitoring without ionizing radiation. For consistent tracking, compare DXA to DXA and REMS to REMS.
Why is the fragility score (bone quality) given by REMS important?
Traditionally, Bone Mineral Density (BMD) has been the primary indicator of fragility fracture risk. However, it's now understood that BMD alone isn't sufficient. Some people with low BMD never fracture, while others with good BMD do. This highlights the need to measure additional bone properties. REMS technology addresses this by providing crucial information on both bone strength and quality, alongside BMD. By Combining a BMD value and Fragility Score, your report generates a 5-year fracture risk. This number is expressed as a % and is more intuitive and more meaningful than T-score.
Is REMS safe?
This technology is FDA cleared and can be used on many patient groups who are not indicated for DXA, like those who are younger, pregnant, or have scoliosis or osteoarthritis. Because REMS uses no ionizing radiation, it is suitable for more frequent scans to assess treatments and lifestyle changes impact on your bone health.
Where can I learn more about REMS?
Echolight is the European company that introduced REMS to the market for bone diagnostics. You may learn more about REMS on their website at www.echolightmedical.com
About your appointment
How do I schedule my REMS bone imaging appointment?
You can schedule an appointment on this website by clicking the "book your appointment" button. Available dates (and different locations if applicable) will appear on the calendar. Select a date/location and available appointment time. Once you have selected an appointment time, you will be prompted to enter information and make a nonrefundable payment to receive your appointment. Once payment has been received, you will receive confirmation of your appointment along with the address to the exact location for the appointment.
How do I prepare for your REMS scan appointment?
Please arrive 10 minutes early for your appointment time. The schedule can be tight and accommodation for late arrivals is not guaranteed. Empty your bladder or bowels before being called to the exam room. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing over your underwear. Your abdomen will be exposed first to perform the exam for the lumbar spine. For the hip you will be asked to bring your pants to mid-thigh to access the inguinal crease (groin). Avoid eating a meal or drinking 2-3 hours prior to your exam. Gas in the intestines will interfere with the lumbar spine exam.
How long do scan appointments take?
The appointment will last approximately 30 minutes which includes time to gather needed information such as name, birth date, race, gender, age at menopause (if applicable), height, and weight. Once all information is entered the scan will begin. REMS scans are performed in a face up position while lying on an examination table. The scan begins with the spine which takes about two minutes. Once the scan is completed data analysis is calculated and a few minutes later a report is generated. Next, the proximal femur (hip) is scanned. The hip scan takes about one minute. The same process occurs for data analysis and report generation. There will be a report immediately available for review before you leave.
Is the REMS scan uncomfortable?
It is not uncomfortable. If you have abdominal sensitivity, the lumbar spine portion of a REMS scan may be uncomfortable due to the pressure sometimes needed to get a good quality scan of the lumbar spine.
Can I have a REMS scan after a total hip replacement or spine surgery?
If you have a total hip replacement, the hip with the implant cannot be scanned, similar to DXA. Inform your examiner if there is hardware in your lumbar spine or if you've had a kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty. Additionally, if you have a lumbar spine fracture, it's crucial to share this information with the imaging technician for both DXA and REMS scans.