Bone Density

What is a DEXA scan?

Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scans are used to measure the strength of your bones. Our DEXA scans are the gold standard for measuring and monitoring bone mineral density using an advanced form of x-ray scanning technology. DEXA is commonly used to diagnose conditions where the density of your bones is lower than it should be, including osteoporosis and osteopenia. 

Understanding your Bone Density scan

Bone Density

•  A Bone Density (DEXA) scan is a type of x-ray which measures the calcium content of the bone.
• By measuring your bone mineral content and comparing it to people of the same age and gender we can give you detailed accurate information about your bone strength so your doctor can plan preventative therapy or medical treatment if necessary.
• If DEXA is repeated over time it can help to track the rate of bone density loss.

Body Composition scan

• Accurate measurement of body composition provides valuable information for assessing, monitoring and treating a variety of diseases and disorders and for monitoring performance.
• Body composition measurement helps physicians monitor the effects of therapy, diet or exercise.
• Body composition scans with DEXA provide precise and accurate data on bone and tissue composition, including bone mineral density, lean muscle mass, and fat tissue mass. They provide both total body data and regional results (trunk, arms, legs, pelvis and android/gynoid regions). The measurements are fast and non-invasive.
• Body composition measurement with DEXA can look beyond weight and the traditional body mass index (BMI) to determine body fat distribution – an important risk factor in a variety of serious diseases including obesity, anorexia nervosa and cystic fibrosis.
• DEXA can help athletes make decisions on the training regimens they use to achieve the best performance.

On the day of your DEXA scan:

• There is no special preparation needed for a DEXA scan, however, please being a list of current medication to your appointment.
• On arrival, please check in with reception.
• You will be asked to fill out a questionnaire to tell us if you:
  - Have any medical conditions.
  - Take certain medications that might increase or decrease your risk of a fracture.
• We will ask you to change into a gown and you will need to remove any jewellery or metal objects that may interfere with the images. We will give you somewhere safe to store your belongings.
• It is essential that you let us know if you have any of the following:
  - Metallic implants in your spine
  - Artificial hips
  - Metallic screws or pins in your bones
• Before your scan, the DEXA technologist will talk you through the process to make sure you are comfortable.

During your DEXA scan:

• We will measure your height and weight first so the computer can gather information about your bone density.
• You will lie on a padded table which has an x-ray generator underneath. 
• You will be supported by a cushion as the detector above you passes up and down your body, generating images on the computer monitor.
• The timing of a DEXA scan varies between 10 and 30 minutes and is dependent on individual scanning machines. Please allow approximately 30 minutes for your appointment.

After your DEXA scan:

• After your appointment, you can resume your normal routine. This includes eating, drinking, exercising and going about your day as usual.
• The images taken during the examination are interpreted by one of our team of DEXA experts. 
• We will send the results to your doctor after a detailed report has been written.
• In some regions, such as Nelson, reports may take to 7-10 days. Please ask at the time of your appointment about when your doctor is likely to receive your diagnostic report.
• In all urgent cases, results are made available as soon as possible. Your doctor will discuss any important findings and next steps with you.