The VirtuOst® BCT Test for Assessment of Osteoporosis and Bone Fragility
The U.S. Surgeon General defines osteoporosis as “a skeletal disorder characterized by compromised bone strength, predisposing to an increased risk of fracture." VirtuOst BCT (biomechanical computed tomography analysis) is the first FDA-cleared test to identify osteoporosis and assess fracture risk on the basis of compromised bone strength. It analyzes and existing CT scan and provides a comprehensive osteoporosis assessment based on both the bone density and bone strength measurements.
How does VirtuOst BCT work?
The VirtuOst BCT test analyzes data in a CT scan to non-invasively measure how strong and dense your bones are. Using a combined engineering and biomechanics approach, VirtuOst BCT uses the information in your CT scan to construct biomechanical models of the hip and/or spine, and then performs a virtual stress test of your hip and/or spine to determine their breaking strengths; it also measures physician-familiar bone mineral density.
Well Validated and Reimbursed
VirtuOst BCT is extensively validated, provides additional diagnostic and fracture risk information than bone density alone, and is reimbursed by Medicare as a Bone Mass Measurement preventive services benefit, with waiver of copayment and deductibles if you meet Medicare’s coverage criteria.
Should I get tested?
VirtuOst BCT may be appropriate for you if you would benefit from an osteoporosis assessment. Please speak with your physician or qualified healthcare provider about if this test is right for you.
The following are the coverage criteria for Medicare when VirtuOst is used for diagnostic purposes:
- An estrogen deficient woman (post-menopausal) who is at risk for osteoporosis based on her medical history and other findings.
- An individual with vertebral abnormalities, as demonstrated by an X-ray to be indicative of osteoporosis, low bone mass, or vertebral fracture.
- An individual receiving (or expecting to receive) glucocorticoid therapy equivalent to an average of ≥ 5.0 mg of prednisone/day for ≥ 3 months.
- An individual with a diagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism.
Ordering the VirtuOst Test
VirtuOst must be ordered by a physician or qualified healthcare professional. Most usually, VirtuOst is performed on a existing CT scan that you have already had as part of your previous medical care. This means you do not need any more imaging in order to get the VirtuOst test.
VirtuOst BCT can be ordered from select healthcare providers that partner with O.N. Diagnostics. In addition, it can be ordered from anywhere in the U.S. directly from the O.N. Diagnostics testing facility. For more details on ordering the VirtuOst test, please refer to Order VirtuOst.