Bone Densitometry (DEXA Scan)
Non-Invasive Diagnostic Examination
Bone Densitometry (DEXA Scan)
Non-Invasive Diagnostic Examination
What is A Bone
Densitometry?
Preparation:
There is no special preparation for a DEXA scan. Patients will be asked to avoid taking calcium supplements for 48 hours prior to the exam. Patients are also asked to inform their physician if they have had a barium exam as these patients will need to wait 10 days before having a DEXA scan performed.
On the day of the exam patients are asked to wear loose, comfortable clothing with no metal buttons, zippers or buckles.
DEXA exams are painless and take about 20 minutes to complete.
Bone densitometry also known as a “Dexa Scan” is a non-invasive, accurate way to measure the bone mineral density in your body. DEXA scan measures the calcium content (density) of the bones. It is a low-dose X-ray that detects signs of mineral loss and bone thinning and it is commonly used to diagnose osteoporosis. This information is critical to a physician’s ability to determine if follow-up steps are needed to protect bone health.
Our facilities use the most current densitometry equipment. Utilizing computer-aided detection built into the densitometry systems helps the radiologist spot areas of concern. Patients can also bring images from previous studies which can be loaded to our system for comparison.
