WHAT IS A BONE DENSITY SCAN? (DEXA)
Bone density scanning, also called dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) or bone densitometry, is an enhanced form of x-ray technology that is used to measure bone loss. DXA is today’s established standard for measuring bone mineral density (BMD).
An x-ray (radiograph) is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Imaging with x-rays involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body. X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging.
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WHOLE BODY SCAN
The team at Optimum Imaging can also provide you with a whole body density scan. Scanning the whole skeleton helps in diagnosing a wide range of bone disorders, including:
-Fractures
-Arthritis
-Paget’s disease of bone
-Cancer originating in bone
-Cancer that has metastasized to bone from a different site
-Infection of the joints, joint replacements or bones
HOW IT WORKS
A DEXA scan (also known as a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan or a bone-density test) uses low-dose X-rays to measure your bone mass. The most common type of DEXA scan—known as a central DEXA scan—measures the bone mass in your hips and spine.
The DXA machine sends a thin, invisible beam of low-dose x-rays with two distinct energy peaks through the bones being examined. One peak is absorbed mainly by soft tissue and the other by bone. The soft tissue amount can be subtracted from the total and what remains is a patient’s bone mineral density.
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Bone Density Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during a bone density scan?
This test is completely painless and noninvasive. You will lie still on a table positioned between an X-ray generator below and a detector above. The detector will move slowly over your hip and spine. The test typically takes no more than 30 minutes.
Our radiologist will send your results to the doctor who ordered your test. If the results reveal that you have osteoporosis or are at risk for it, your doctor will recommend ways to improve your bone health and reduce your fracture risk.
How should I prepare for a bone density scan (DEXA)?
A DEXA scan at Touchstone Medical Imaging requires minimal preparation. You can eat and drink normally leading up to the test, but if you use calcium supplements, you shouldn’t take them for 24 hours before the scan.
Dress in loose, comfortable clothes. Avoid belts or clothing that have zippers or metal buttons. Leave jewelry at home. If you wear glasses, you may need to remove them during the scan.
How often should I get a bone density test?
Recommendations for testing frequency are determined by your risk factors and previous testing results. You may need one DEXA test initially and then you may not need another test for up to 15 years if you have healthy bone density. However, if your scan indicates you have osteopenia or osteoporosis, you may need DEXA scans more frequently. Your doctor can advise you on DEXA frequency.
What does a bone density test show?
DEXA scans are used to measure bone mineral density. This information can help us determine your likelihood for bone fractures and osteoporosis.
Can a DEXA bone density scan show cancer?
While a DEXA scan isn’t typically used to diagnose cancer, it can provide your care team with important information to help them determine whether additional testing is needed or if cancer has spread into your bones.
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