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Bone density scans are often used to diagnose or assess your risk of osteoporosis, a health condition that weakens bones and makes them more likely to break. As well as being quick and painless, a bone density scan is more effective than normal X-rays in identifying low bone density.
- How It is Performed
between -1 and -2.5 SD is defined as mildly reduced bone...
- Osteoporosis
Bone density scan (DEXA scan) They may also refer you for a...
- When It is Used
Bone density scans, also known as DEXA scans, help to work...
- How It is Performed
A DEXA scan, also known as a DXA or bone density scan, uses very low levels of X-ray radiation to produce images of your bones. It detects how much radiation is absorbed by your bones, which shows how dense they are.
- A DEXA scan measures the density of your bones to show how strong they are. It’s a test that doctors use to help diagnose osteoporosis. For more in...
- There isn’t anything you need to do to prepare for a DEXA scan. You’ll have the scan and go home the same day. You may be able to stay fully dresse...
- Your doctor will usually recommend you have a DEXA scan as part of an assessment for osteoporosis at age 65 and older (for women) and 75 and over (...
- The scan is safe, quick and painless and usually takes between 10 and 20 minutes. You’ll lie on your back on a padded table during the scan. An X-r...
- You may be able to keep your bra on but if it’s underwired you may need to take it off. Metal items can show up on the scan so you may need to remo...
- There isn’t anything you should avoid before a DEXA scan. Your hospital will check if you’ve had any other scans recently that may affect the resul...
- How Does A DXA Scan Work?
- What to Expect at Your Scan
- Understanding Your DXA Scan Results
- After Your Scan
In most cases, a bone density scan uses a type of X-ray called dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. This is shortened to DXA (or occasionally DEXA). The scan uses a low radiation dose, so it's not harmful. It's similar to natural background radiation that you would expect on a transatlantic flight.
A DXA scan is usually carried out by a radiographer, a DXA technician or a specially trained nurse. You may have to change into a hospital gown before your scan. Rest assured the procedure isn’t unpleasant. You don’t go into a tunnel, or need an injection. In most cases, you're asked to lie on your back, on a firm couch. A scanning arm passes over ...
The results of your DXA scan tell your doctor how much bone tissue you have in the areas tested. This is also known as your bone density.
If your T-score is in the osteoporosis range, or you have other risk factors for osteoporosis, such as: 1. you’ve broken a bone easily 2. you're taking a medication or have a medical conditionthat is known to affect bone strength 3. you have a combination of a number of other risk factors for osteoporosis - it's likely you also need a fracture risk...
Mar 7, 2024 · A bone density study, also known as a bone mineral density test or DEXA scan, is a diagnostic test that measures the strength and density of your bones. This test is crucial in assessing your risk for osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones.
Oct 3, 2018 · Bone density scan (DEXA scan) They may also refer you for a bone density scan to measure your bone strength. It's a short, painless procedure that takes 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the part of the body being scanned.
Nov 2, 2022 · A bone density test can help diagnose osteopenia and osteoporosis, which decrease bone density and strength, but does not show arthritis. It is a painless procedure that takes place at a hospital, medical clinic, or outpatient imaging center.
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Diagnostic tests. Bone density scan (DXA scan) A bone density scan (DXA) scan can be used to check the density of your bones. If your bone density is low, you have a higher risk of a bone fracture. On this page. What is a bone density scan? Who has a bone density scan? How the scan is done. What does a bone density (DXA) scan show?
