DEXA

(DEXA Scan Bone Density Test)

A bone density test helps to estimate the density of your bones and your chance of breaking a bone. Our central dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) machine diagnose osteoporosis.

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DEXA Scan Bone Density Test 

    • DEXA scan test is a type of X- ray that measures the bone mineral density and bone loss. In case you have a lower bone density than normal (for your age), there is a risk for osteoporosis and bone fractures.
    • The technique of DEXA was introduced for commercial purposes in 1987. DEXA stands for dual energy X- ray absorptiometry. DEXA transmits two X- ray beams at dissimilar peak energy frequencies to the target bones. The soft tissue absorbs one peak while the other peak is absorbed by the bone. Bone mineral density is the remainder obtained when the amount of soft tissue absorption is deducted from the total amount of absorption.
    • DEXA scan is fast, non-invasive and more accurate as compared to a regular X-ray. An extremely low level of radiation is involved in it.
    • The World Health Organization (WHO) recognises DEXA as the best technique for evaluating bone mineral density in postmenopausal women. DEXA is also known by the names- DXA or bone densitometry.
Why is DEXA scan Test used by doctors?
  • A DEXA scan Test is used to examine and estimate the risk of osteoporosis and bone fracture.  Doctors also use it to check if your osteoporosis treatment is working. Generally, the scan targets the lower spine and hips.
  • Before the development of DEXA scan, standard X-ray diagnostics were only capable of noticing bone loss that was more than 40%. DEXA may measure 2-4% accuracy.  The first sign of bone density loss may be when an older adult breaks a bone.
  • DEXA scan is also used to measure the composition of the body, lean muscle and fat tissue. It is more accurate than the traditional body mass index (BMI) in examining excess fat. To evaluate weight loss or muscle strengthening, a total body picture may be used.
When will the doctor recommend DEXA Scan Test?

The doctor may recommend a DEXA scan in case:

  • You are a woman aged above 65 or a man above 70, which is the recommendation of the various medical groups
  • You have symptoms of osteoporosis
  • You break a bone after 50 years of age
  • You are a man aged 50-59 or a postmenopausal woman under 65 with risk factors
  • Your X-rays show the possibility of osteoporosis, osteopenia or fractures
  • You are taking a steroid drug, such as prednisone
  • You have primary hyperparathyroidism
  • The doctor wants to check if your osteoporosis drug is working
    What are the risk factors of Osteoporosis?

    Following factors may increase your risk of osteoporosis:

    • Use of tobacco & alcohol
    • Use of corticosteroids & some other drugs
    • Low body mass index
    • Certain diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis
    • Physical inactivity
    • Family history of osteoporosis
    • Previous fractures
    • Height loss of more than an inch
    What are the preparations required for a DEXA scan Test?

    • DEXA scan generally does not require any special preparations except that the doctor may recommend you not to take any calcium supplements for 24 hours prior to the test. 

    • You should wear comfortable clothes. The doctor or technician may ask you to take off any clothes with metal fasteners, zippers or hooks depending on the body area that has to be scanned.

    • You must inform the doctor if you are pregnant. The doctor may then schedule the DEXA scan after you have delivered the baby or may take special precautions while performing the scan.

    What are the diagnostic procedures for DEXA scan Test?

    • The apparatus of DEXA consists of a flat-padded table on which you lie, a movable arm above that holds the X-ray detector and a device below the table that produces X-rays.

    • The doctor or technician will ask you to lie on the table and help you in positioning. A wedge may be placed under the knees to help flatten your spine for a better image or for better positioning of the hip. Your arms may also be positioned for scanning.

    DEXA Scan Bone Density Test at Royal Scans

    At Royal Scans, we offer DEXA Scan, a specialized bone density test that provides accurate and comprehensive information about your bone health.

    Our bone density test is a cutting-edge diagnostic tool designed to evaluate the strength and density of your bones. Using state-of-the-art technology, we can provide you with a detailed assessment of your skeletal health.

    The bone density test, also known as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan, utilizes low-dose X-rays to measure the mineral content and density of your bones. It focuses on key areas such as the spine, hips, and wrists, which are more prone to osteoporosis and fractures.

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