DEXA (Dual-energy X-Ray Absorptiometry)

The DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) Bone Densitometry scan is considered the gold standard in bone density testing.  DEXA measures the bone mineral content and density of specific bone areas (mainly the hip and spine) that are most susceptible to fracture due to osteoporosis and other degenerative bone disease.  DEXA is simple, painless and takes minutes.  During the test, the patient lies fully clothed on a padded treatment table while the machine scans one or more areas of the bone.  The radiation emitted during the test is less than the radiation exposure during a coast-to-coast airline flight.

Early detection of bone loss may be able to prevent additional bone loss.  If you think you are a patient who may be at risk of developing osteoporosis, please consult your physician to see if this is an appropriate exam for you to have.  As always, a doctor's order is necessary for us to provide this service to you.

Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become brittle, less dense, and increasingly susceptible to fractures.  Today, 10 million Americans have osteoporosis and 18 million others have low bone mass, which puts them at increased risk for the disease.

To prepare for your DEXA screening:

• Eat normally on the day of the exam (unless otherwise instructed)
• Avoid taking calcium supplements for at least 24 hours prior to your appointment
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing like sweats (preferably without zippers, buttons, grommets or any other metal)
• You should not have had a barium study, radioisotope injection, oral or intravenous contrast material from a CT scan or MRI within seven days prior to your DEXA test