A dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) test measures the density (or thickness) of your bones.
PARTS OF THE BODY INVOLVED
The DEXA scan takes measurements at the spine, hip, and wrist, and sometimes other sites, such as a finger or the heel bone. Measurements of the spine and hip are called central DXA. Those done at the arms or legs are called peripheral DXA. In some cases, your doctor may order a whole body scan.
REASONS FOR PROCEDURE
This procedure will help your doctor assess the density of your bones, and determine if you have osteoporosis, a bone thinning disease. This information may be used to predict your risk of bone fractures.
RISK FACTORS FOR COMPLICATIONS DURING THE PROCEDURE
No complications are expected from this procedure.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Prior to Procedure
Eat normally on the day of the exam, but do not take calcium supplements for at least 24 hours prior to the exam. If you have had a barium study, or have been injected with contrast dye for a CT scan or MRI, wait at least seven days before undergoing a DEXA scan.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Avoid clothing with metal zippers, belts, or buttons.
During Procedure
You will lie, fully clothed, on a cushioned table. You will stay motionless while the arm of the DEXA machine passes over your body taking measurements.
Anesthesia
No anesthesia is required. This procedure is painless.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PROCEDURE
Total body measurement - as you lie on the table, the machine passes over your body and takes measurements of your bone density by sending a thin, invisible beam of low-dose x-rays through your bones. The amount of radiation is very small, less than 1/10 the dose of a standard chest x-ray. Based on how much the x-rays have changed after passing through your bones, a picture of your skeleton will be generated.
Spine or hip measurement - your toes are placed in a “pigeon-toed” position, and the same procedure as above is followed.
Wrist measurement - you sit in a chair beside the DEXA machine, and your arm is placed in a holding device while the measurement is taken.
AFTER PROCEDURE
After the procedure you will return home.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?
The scan takes approximately ten minutes to complete.
WILL IT HURT?
This procedure is completely non-invasive and painless.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
There are usually no complications from this procedure. There is a small amount of radiation exposure, less than 1/10 the dose of a standard chest x-ray. Radiation exposure is cumulative over a lifetime.
AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY
You will not be admitted to the hospital for a DEXA scan. It is an outpatient procedure.
POSTOPERATIVE CARE
No special post-procedure care is required.
OUTCOME
The test results are usually available within a few days. Your test results will show two types of scores:
T score - this number shows the amount of bone you have in comparison to a young adult of the same gender with peak bone mass. A score above -1 is considered normal. A score between -1 and -2.5 is classified as osteopenia, the first stage of bone loss. A score below -2.5 is defined as osteoporosis.
Z score - this number shows the amount of bone you have in comparison to other people of your age group, gender, and size.
These test results will help your doctor to determine your risk for bone fractures. The lower your bone density, the higher your risk for bone fracture will be.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING OCCURS
Call your doctor if you have any questions about the procedure, your condition, or your test results.
SOURCES:
Osteoporosis and Bone Mass Measurement
National Osteoporosis Foundation
