What is BONE DENSITOMETRY?

What is Bone Densitometry?

Bone Densitometry, or DEXA scan, is a quick and painless procedure that measures bone loss. This is a common exam for the lower back and hips as these areas are most often affected by osteoporosis. This exam can help determine your risk of fracture. If you have metallic hardware in your back or hips, your forearm may be used for measurement as well.


Bone mineral is measured with what we call a T-score; this number shows the amount of bone you have compared to other adults of the same age and gender. Scores above -1 are normal. A score between -1 to -2.5 can show the first stage of bone loss known as osteopenia. A score below -2.5 is defined as osteoporosis.


What is bone densitometry used for?

Bone densitometry is used commonly to diagnose osteoporosis, which primarily affects women after menopause but can also be found in men. Osteoporosis involves a gradual loss of calcium, which weakens the bones making them thin and more likely to break. To accurately detect osteoporosis, we measure bone mineral density (BMD) with bone densitometry scan. It can also be used as a tracking mechanism to know how your body responds to treatment for osteoporosis and assess your risk for fractures.


Bone density testing is recommended for:

  • Post-menopausal women over 60, who have risk factors for developing osteoporosis
  • Patients with a personal or maternal history of hip fracture or smoking
  • Post-menopausal women who are tall (over 5 feet 7 inches) or thin (less than 125 pounds)
  • Men and women who have hyperparathyroidism
  • Men and women who have taken medications known to cause bone loss for an extended period


How do I prepare for a bone density (DEXA) scan?

The DEXA scan is quick and painless there is not much special preparation required for this exam. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before your exam:

  • Refrain from taking calcium supplements for at least 48 hours before your study
  • Wear comfortable clothing and avoid garments that have zippers, belts or buttons made of metal
  • Let your technologist know if you’ve recently had a barium examination or have been injected with a contrast material for a CT or radioisotope scan
  • Let your technologist know if there is a possibility you are pregnant


What should I expect during the DEXA scan?

Bone densitometry is a non-invasive, simple, painless procedure. This exam normally takes between 10-30 minutes, depending on the type of study and what part of the body needs to be examined. You will be asked to lie down on a padded table with a detector (imaging device) above you. You will be asked to remain as still as possible during the procedure- movement can blur the images, decreasing its quality.



One of our board-certified radiologists will interpret the examination and forward a report to your healthcare provider.