Bone density (Dexa)
what is a Bone density
(Dexa) exam?
Bone density scanning, also called dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) or bone densitometry, is an enhanced form of x-ray technology that is used to measure bone loss. DXA is today's established standard for measuring bone mineral density (BMD).
screening Bone Density
Are used when the patient has no signs or symptoms.
Diagnostic Bone Density
Are used when signs or symptoms have been found.
Why are we omitting Calcium 24 hours before the scan?
Calcium affects the scan and analyzes the patient's number to appear osteoporotic. Diagnosing a patient with osteoporosis the condition of weak and brittle bones, depending on their provider can place them on unnecessary medications.
Why are we making sure that contrast and radionuclides are free from the patient's system for 14 days?
Contrast and radionuclides affect the DXA scan and analyzes the patient's number to appear osteoporotic. Diagnosing a patient with osteoporosis the condition of weak and brittle bones, depending on their provider can place them on unnecessary medications. Therefore, making sure this is free from their system ensures the proper diagnosis of our DXA patient population.
How does the procedure work?
The DXA machine sends a thin, invisible beam of low-dose x-rays with two distinct energy peaks through the bones being examined. One peak is absorbed mainly by soft tissue and the other by bone. The soft tissue amount can be subtracted from the total and what remains is a patient's bone mineral density.
DXA machines feature special software that compute and display the bone density measurements on a computer monitor.
What will I experience during and after the procedure?
Bone density tests are a quick and painless procedure.
Routine evaluations every two years may be needed to see a significant change in bone mineral density, decrease or increase. Few patients, such as patients on high dose steroid medication, may need follow-up at six months.