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One out of
two women over age 50 will have an osteoporosis-related
fracture in their remaining lifetime. Are you at risk? You
can find out easily and painlessly with a bone
densitometry scan, or DEXA.
What is DEXA and how
does it work?
 DEXA
(Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) or bone densitometry
uses low strength X-rays to measure the density and
mineral content of your bones. The amount of X-ray used
is very small - less than one-tenth of what is used in a
chest X-ray. This test is a valuable tool for diagnosing
osteoporosis, which often has no symptoms until you
suffer a fracture. DEXA can diagnose the disease at its
earliest stages, which means you can begin receiving
treatment to protect your bones sooner.
How do you prepare
for your DEXA scan?
• You will be asked
to arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment and to
bring your referral. If you need to reschedule or
cancel, call 24 hours in advance.
• Let us know what medications you take, including
non-prescription medicines and supplements. You may take
Fosamax and multivitamins before your exam.
• Tell us if you are or may be pregnant or if you are
breastfeeding.
• Do not take any calcium supplements for 24 hours
before your exam.
• If you have had an X-ray that used any contrast
material (dye) or a nuclear medicine study, schedule
your DEXA exam at least one week after those tests.
• At most centers, if you weigh more than 300 pounds,
only your forearm will be scanned.
What should you bring to
your procedure?
• Prescription or referral from your physician
• Photo ID
• List of medications you take
• Insurance cards
• Medical history
What will you
experience during your DEXA scan?
On arrival
• A technologist will take you to the exam room,
ask you some medical questions, and explain what you can
expect during your test.
• You will need to remove any metal or plastic from
the part of your body being examined and change into a
gown.
During your DEXA exam
• Depending on whether your hip, spine, or wrist
is being scanned, you will either lie on a table or sit
in a chair. You may lie with your legs straight or with
your lower legs resting on a platform to elevate them
slightly.
• The scan will take about 30 minutes.
After your DEXA scan
• You can leave immediately after your DEXA scan.
• The radiologist will review your scans and send the
results to your physician.
For an
appointment, please call (805) 778-1513 or click here
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