What is a bone density scan?

A bone density scan, also called DEXA, uses a low dose of radiation to take images of your spine and hips or forearm to measure for loss of bone density. DEXA is the preferred method for diagnosing osteoporosis and assessing your risk for fracture.

What conditions does a bone density scan help diagnose?

A bone density scan is used to detect the onset of osteoporosis, evaluate your risk for fractures and monitor treatment process for osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones making them more likely to break. It is often called a silent disease because bone loss occurs without symptoms.

There are several risk fractures for developing osteoporosis including steroid use, smoking, alcohols use, previous fractures, early menopause, rheumatoid arthritis and aging.

What should I expect during a bone density scan?

DEXA is quick and easy; no special prep is required. You should inform your provider and the technologist if you might be pregnant or have recently had an imaging exam in which contrast was used. You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing without metal accoutrements. You should also avoid any calcium supplements for at least 24 hours prior to your exam.

During the exam you will lie on a table and a scanner will pass over you, passing x-rays through your bones to measure the amount of mineral in your bone. The amount of radiation you are exposed to is very low, much less than during a chest X-ray.

The test usually takes 20-30 minutes from start to finish.

What happens after my bone density scan?

After your scan, a physician will read your study and send a report to your provider. Your provider will discuss these results with you.