Bone Density (DEXA) Scan

DEXA scans can identify a decrease in bone density and confirm an osteoporosis diagnosis before a break occurs. Our experienced imaging technologists and radiologists are here to conduct DEXA scans when you need them—close to home in South Jersey with locations including our outpatient AMI at Inspira facilities.

What are DEXA Scans?

DEXA stands for dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and is the established and trusted standard for measuring bone mineral density (BMD), the information needed to determine if someone has osteoporosis. A DEXA scan can help detect low bone density before a fracture occurs, confirm a suspected diagnosis of osteoporosis, predict your chances of a fracture occurring in the future and monitor the effects of treatment.

Your primary care provider may recommend getting a DEXA scan to screen for osteoporosis if you’re over the age of 65 or are between the ages of 50-64 and have certain risk factors. Risk factors for osteoporosis include age, gender, family history, intestinal disorders, multiple sclerosis and low body weight.

What to Expect When You Have a DEXA Scan

DEXA scans are painless, non-invasive and safe and take just 10-20 minutes to complete. As with many imaging procedures, be sure to tell your provider or technologist if you are or may be pregnant at the time of the scan. You will be asked to remove anything metal that you’re wearing before the scan, as it can interfere with the resulting images.

Usually, DEXA scans require you to lie on a table with your legs propped up on a padded box. Your technologist may also put your foot in a device to turn your hips inward. The images taken during your scan will be used to determine your T-score, how your bone density compares to the optimal peak for your biological sex, and your Z-score, how your bone density compares to others who are the same age, sex and ethnicity.