REMS Echolight Bone Scan in London
£300 In-Clinic + Report | £500 Home Visit
Radiation-free REMS Echolight bone scan in London. Measures bone density, microarchitecture & fracture risk for advanced preventative screening.
Bone Health
What Is a REMS Echolight Bone Screen?
The REMS Echolight Bone Scan is an advanced, radiation-free method of assessing bone strength using radiofrequency ultrasound technology. REMS — Radiofrequency Echographic Multi Spectrometry — is clinically validated to estimate bone mineral density while also evaluating bone microarchitecture, the internal structure that plays a critical role in fracture resistance.
Unlike DEXA, which relies on low-dose X-ray and primarily measures bone density, REMS analyses both density and structural quality. This distinction matters. Two individuals may have similar density readings, yet different fracture risks depending on the integrity of their bone microarchitecture.
A REMS assessment provides:
- Estimated bone mineral density
- Microarchitectural evaluation
- Fracture risk score
- BMI calculation
As the scan does not use ionising radiation, it can be safely repeated for ongoing monitoring and preventative health planning. It offers a structured, evidence-based way to assess skeletal health before complications arise.
At London Blood Tests, we position REMS within a broader preventative framework, recognising that bone strength is influenced by nutritional status, hormonal balance and metabolic health.
Comparison
Why Choose REMS Instead of a DEXA Scan?
DEXA scans are widely used to assess bone mineral density and help diagnose osteoporosis. They rely on low-dose X-ray technology and provide valuable information about bone mass. However, density is only one component of bone strength.
The REMS Echolight Bone Scan takes assessment further. Using radiofrequency ultrasound rather than ionising radiation, REMS evaluates both bone mineral density and bone microarchitecture, the internal structure that contributes to skeletal resilience. Two individuals with similar density readings may not share the same fracture risk if their internal bone quality differs.
Key advantages of REMS include:
- No radiation exposure
- Assessment of structural bone quality in addition to density
- Fracture risk estimation
- Suitable for repeat monitoring as part of preventative care
For patients seeking a radiation-free, more comprehensive assessment of bone integrity, REMS offers a clinically validated alternative designed for early insight and ongoing monitoring.
Your Results
What Does the REMS Report Include?
A REMS Echolight Bone Scan delivers a structured clinical report designed to provide a clear overview of bone strength and estimated fracture risk.
The report typically includes:
- Estimated Bone Mineral Density (BMD)
- Microarchitectural assessment, reflecting internal bone quality
- Fracture risk estimation
- Body Mass Index (BMI) calculation
The microarchitectural analysis is particularly significant. Bone strength is determined not only by mineral content, but by the integrity of its internal structure. By evaluating both components, REMS offers a more comprehensive picture of skeletal resilience.
Results are presented in a clear, clinically interpretable format to support informed discussion and appropriate next steps. While no single scan replaces full medical evaluation, REMS provides objective data that can guide preventative strategies and ongoing monitoring where indicated.
Who It’s For
Who Is the REMS Echolight Bone Scan For?
Reduced bone strength often develops without symptoms. Many people only become aware of an issue after a fracture. The REMS Echolight Bone Scan is suited to individuals who wish to assess bone health early and take a preventative approach.
This assessment may be particularly relevant for:
- Women in the peri- or post-menopausal stage
- Men over 40 seeking baseline bone evaluation
- Individuals with a family history of osteoporosis
- Those with previous low-impact fractures
- Patients with vitamin D deficiency or malabsorption concerns
- Individuals with thyroid or hormonal imbalance
- People taking long-term corticosteroids or other bone-affecting medication
- Those focused on longevity and structured health monitoring
Bone strength is influenced by hormonal balance, nutritional status, metabolic health and lifestyle factors. Identifying potential changes early allows for informed decision-making and appropriate follow-up where required.
At London Blood Tests, the REMS scan supports a proactive, evidence-based framework for skeletal health assessment and ongoing monitoring.
The Process
What Happens During the Appointment?
The REMS Echolight Bone Scan is a simple, non-invasive procedure carried out in clinic or at your home. You will be asked to lie comfortably while a clinician performs the scan over the lower spine and/or hip using a handheld ultrasound probe. A small amount of gel is applied to the skin to optimise signal transmission, like other ultrasound-based examinations.
The assessment usually takes around 20–30 minutes. There is:
- No ionising radiation
- No injections
- No downtime
The device analyses radiofrequency ultrasound signals to generate estimates of bone mineral density and evaluate internal bone structure. Findings are compiled into a structured report for review and discussion.
Preparation requirements are minimal. Comfortable clothing is advised, and further guidance will be provided when booking your appointment.
Monitoring
How Often Should You Repeat a REMS Bone Scan?
Bone density and structural integrity can change gradually over time. Factors such as ageing, menopause, hormonal balance, nutrition, and certain medical treatments all influence skeletal health.
A REMS Echolight Bone Scan is often used to establish a baseline measurement. Follow-up scans can then help monitor trends rather than relying on a single result. As REMS does not involve ionising radiation, it can be repeated safely. For many individuals, reassessment on an annual basis may be appropriate, particularly where risk factors are present or where bone health is being actively managed.
The ideal interval depends on individual circumstances, including:
- Age and menopausal stage
- Previous low bone density findings
- History of fractures
- Hormonal or metabolic conditions
- Medications known to affect bone
Regular monitoring allows for earlier identification of change and supports a more proactive approach to bone health.
Integrated Assessment
Combine REMS With Blood Testing for a More Complete Assessment
Bone health is influenced by multiple physiological systems. Structural strength, mineral balance, hormonal regulation, and inflammatory activity all interact to determine overall skeletal integrity.
While the REMS Echolight Bone Scan assesses bone mineral density and microarchitecture, blood testing can help identify underlying factors that may affect bone turnover and strength.
Markers often considered in a broader bone health assessment include:
- Vitamin D, supporting calcium absorption
- Calcium and magnesium, essential for bone metabolism
- Thyroid function, as over- or underactivity may impact bone turnover
- Parathyroid hormone, where clinically indicated
- Inflammatory markers, which may influence remodelling processes
By combining imaging with relevant laboratory evaluation, it becomes possible to assess both structural status and potential biological contributors. This integrated approach supports a more informed and preventative strategy for long-term bone health.
Pricing & Booking
Book Your REMS Bone Scan
The REMS Echolight Bone Scan is provided as a comprehensive, clinician-led assessment with a detailed written report. Your appointment includes: ultrasound-based bone mineral density estimation, microarchitectural evaluation, fracture risk calculation, BMI assessment, and a structured clinical report for review. This is a private, advanced bone health screening service and appointments are limited. Early booking is advised.
In-Clinic + Report
£300Have your REMS Echolight bone scan at one of our London clinics. The scan measures bone density and microarchitecture at the spine and hip using radiation-free ultrasound. Your appointment includes the full scan and a detailed written report to take away or share with your GP or specialist.
Book In-Clinic ScreeningHome Visit
£500We bring REMS Echolight bone screening to you. Our trained operator visits your home (or another agreed address) with the portable REMS equipment, performs the scan in a comfortable environment, and you receive the same full report as the in-clinic option.
Book Home VisitAppointments can be arranged directly through London Blood Tests. Where appropriate, the scan may be combined with targeted blood testing to provide a broader preventative assessment.
London Blood Tests
Why Choose Our REMS Bone Scan
For patients seeking a radiation-free, more comprehensive assessment of bone integrity, REMS offers a clinically validated alternative designed for early insight and ongoing monitoring.
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No radiation exposure: Safe for repeat monitoring.
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Structural bone quality: Beyond density alone.
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Fracture risk estimation: Clear, interpretable report.
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In-clinic or home: £300 in clinic + report, £500 home visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Browse our most asked questions
The REMS Echolight Bone Scan is a radiation-free assessment that estimates bone mineral density and evaluates bone microarchitecture using radiofrequency ultrasound technology.
No. REMS uses ultrasound-based radiofrequency signals and does not involve ionising radiation.
DEXA primarily measures bone mineral density using low-dose X-ray. REMS is radiation-free and evaluates internal bone structure, which contributes to overall bone strength.
The assessment typically takes 20–30 minutes, with no recovery time required.
No. The procedure is non-invasive and similar to a standard ultrasound examination.
It may be appropriate for individuals over 40, women in peri- or post-menopause, those with a family history of osteoporosis, previous fractures, or known risk factors affecting bone health.
REMS provides bone density estimates and fracture risk assessment. A formal diagnosis should always be made in conjunction with clinical evaluation and medical history.
As the scan does not use radiation, it can be repeated for monitoring. Annual reassessment may be appropriate depending on individual risk factors.
A referral is not typically required for private screening, although you should inform your healthcare provider if you have ongoing medical conditions affecting bone health.
In many cases, yes. Bone health is influenced by vitamin D, mineral status, thyroid function, and hormonal balance. Combining imaging with laboratory testing can provide a broader assessment.