Why We Perform DEXA Scans

Physicians perform DEXA scans for a variety of reasons. The exam is most commonly used to diagnose osteoporosis and other conditions that cause bone loss.

Physicians recommend DEXA scans for patients who fit into any of the following categories:

  • Post-menopausal women who are not taking estrogen
  • Individuals with personal or maternal histories of smoking or hip fractures
  • Men with clinical conditions associated with bone loss, including chronic kidney or liver disease and rheumatoid arthritis
  • Patients who have experienced a fracture or mild trauma
  • Patients who take medications known to lead to bone loss
  • Individuals who have high bone turnover
  • Patients who have thyroid or parathyroid conditions

What to Expect During Your Procedure

During the DEXA body scan, you will lie on a padded table situated above an x-ray generator. An imaging device will be positioned above the examination table.

The technologist will ask you to remain as still as possible to ensure that the images are clear. Then the technologist will leave the room or walk behind a wall to start the x-ray, but they will be able to communicate with you during the procedure if need be.

While undergoing the procedure, the technologist will assess your spine and hips by passing a detector over the areas to generate images. They will also perform peripheral tests to assess your fingers, hands or forearms.

The DEXA bone density test typically takes 10 to 30 minutes.

How to Prepare for Your DEXA Scan

A DEXA scan requires very little preparation on the patient’s part. You should wear loose, comfortable clothes on the day of the procedure so that you can change into medical scrubs (top and pants) or a hospital gown easily. Leave metal jewelry and accessories at home, as you will need to remove them before the procedure.

On the day of the bone density scan, you can eat and drink as you normally would. However, you should not take calcium supplements for at least a full day leading up to the examination.

You will need to inform your doctor if you have had a barium exam recently. You should also let the physician know if you have been injected with a contrast material for a CT or radioisotope scan within the last 10 to 14 days, as any remaining material in your system can affect the results of the scan.

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Study generated results available immediately—to be discussed in detail with your referring physician.

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Provides detailed measurements of the body by looking at bone density, fat mass and lean mass.

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Easy-to-read reports use color mapping to identify fat, lean muscle mass and bone.

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Ability to quickly assess and explain the state of patient’s health.

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Evaluate a patient’s body changes over time, enabling patients and clinicians to access and adjust treatment programs.

What Is a DEXA Body Composition Scan?

A dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry scan, commonly known as a DEXA scan, is a quick, painless procedure that allows your physician to determine your body composition. DEXA scans are primarily used to measure bone density, but the scan also demonstrates body fat percentage.

What Is a BodyLogic TM DEXA Body Composition Scan?

With a physician referral, we can perform a BodyLogicTM DEXA Body Composition scan which provides detailed body measurements by looking at bone density, fat mass, and lean mass. This critical information can be used to accurately assess the state of a patient or athlete’s health and define successful treatment plans and training programs.

Learn More or Schedule an Appointment Today

Are you ready to make an appointment for a DEXA body composition scan? Browse our locations to find one that offers DEXA scans near you. Once you’ve found the right Envision Imaging center, you can contact them directly to learn more or schedule an appointment.

Find Your Nearest Location See Example Reports Learn More at the BodyLogicTM Website