Get SMA Imaging Order Form For Bone Density (DEXA Scan)

During the scan, a large scanning arm will be passed over your body to measure bone density in the centre of the skeleton. As the scanning arm is moved slowly over your body, a narrow beam of low-dose X-rays will be passed through the part of your body being examined.

What is a Bone Density Scan (DEXA,DXA)? 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).

Understanding Bone Density Test Results Your bone density test results are reported using T-scores. A T-score shows how much your bone density is higher or lower than the bone density of a healthy 30-year old adult. A healthcare provider looks at the lowest T-score to diagnosis osteoporosis.

Many people get a bone-density test every few years. The main reason to have the test is to find and treat serious bone loss, called osteoporosis, and prevent fractures and disability. Most men under 70 and women under age 65 probably don't need the test because: Most people do not have serious bone loss.

Do I have to fast prior to the bone density test? No, but many testing centers ask that you not take calcium supplements during the 24 hours before your test. This is because as the tablet goes through your digestive tract, it may obscure the view of one of your spine bones.

The DEXA scan is a useful diagnostic test that doctors use to determine whether a person has low bone density and or a higher risk of experiencing fractures. The test may also provide information on body fat percentage.

A bone density scan, also known as a DEXA scan, is a type of low-dose x-ray test that measures calcium and other minerals in your bones. The measurement helps show the strength and thickness (known as bone density or mass) of your bones.

Depending on the study you read, the variability between DXA scans can be as high as 5% to 6%. Although 5% to 6% might sound like a small amount, changes in bone growth are measured down to the hundredth and even thousandth decimal point.

Avoid taking calcium supplements for at least 24 hours before your bone density test.

Why can't I take calcium supplements or multiple vitamins on the day of my DEXA scan prior to my test? If the calcium supplement is not completely dissolved, it will be interpreted by the DEXA instrument as extra bone and may produce an inaccurate reading.