What are the effects of a bone marrow density scan?

Since bone marrow density scans use extremely small amounts of radiation, side effects are unlikely from this noninvasive procedure, according to RadiologyInfo. Bone densitometry uses only a fraction of the radiation of a normal chest X-ray. No radiation remains in the patient's body following the procedure.

Bone densitometry is used to diagnose osteoporosis and other conditions that affect bone density. The test uses low-dose X-rays to measure bones and soft tissue. It helps doctors predict a patient's risk of suffering a fracture due to thinning bones. The procedure, which is usually performed on an outpatient basis, is fast and painless, according to RadiologyInfo.