DEXA stands for “Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry.” A DEXA scan is a type of medical imaging test. It uses very low levels of X-Rays to measure how dense your bones are. A DEXA scan is an imaging test that measures bone density (strength). DEXA scan results can provide helpful details about your risk for osteoporosis (bone loss) and fractures (bone breaks). This test can also measure your body composition, such as body fat and muscle mass.

How should you prepare and what to expect:

• Stop taking calcium supplements 24 hours before your test.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing with no metal.
• Tell your doctor if you might be pregnant.
• You will be asked to lie on a special DEXA x-ray table. The technologist will help position you correctly and use positioning devices such as foam blocks to help hold the desired position.
• As the arm of the DEXA machine passes over the body, it uses two different x-ray beams. The beams use very little radiation to keep the test safer, and help to distinguish bone from other tissues.
• The scanner translates the bone density measurement data into pictures and graphs. Bone is most easily seen in white, while the, fat and muscle tissue look like shadows in the background on the technologist’s computer monitor.
• These results are then reviewed and interpreted.

A DEXA scan usually takes no more than 25 minutes. Many people are in and out of the room in less than 30 minutes. DEXA Scan is not at all painful. You won’t feel a thing as the X-ray beams pass through your body.