DEXA
What is DEXA?
Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) examinations estimate the amount of
bone mineral content in specific areas of your body. DEXA exams measure the
amount of x-rays that are absorbed by the bones in your body. Two x-ray energies
allow the radiologist to tell the difference between bone and soft tissue,
giving a very accurate estimation of bone density. Often confused with a nuclear
medicine bone scan, a bone density scan is faster and does not require a radionuclide
injection.
What Should I Expect?
You will be asked to lie very still on the scan table and you will
be able to breathe normally throughout the procedure. A scanner arm will
pass over the area of interest, for example, your lower spine or hip. A dual
energy beam of x-ray passes through your body and is measured by a detector
in the scanner arm. An exam usually consists of a spine and a single scan
of the hip. On average, it will take about twenty minutes for the entire
exam.
How should I prepare for this procedure?
Unless instructed otherwise, eat normally on the day of the exam,
but avoid calcium supplements for two hours prior to your appointment. Avoid
wearing clothing with metal. Sweat suits or other casual attire without zippers
are usually acceptable.
How Do I Get the Results?
After your study is over, the test will be evaluated by one of our board-certified
radiologists, with expertise in bone density testing. A final report will be
sent to your doctor who can then discuss the results with you in detail.
Should you have any questions regarding the osteoporosis scan exam, we will be glad to discuss them with you.
For more information please visit www.Radiologyinfo.org
