Bone density scan (DEXA scan) - How it is performed

How it is performed-Bone density scan (DEXA scan)

Contents

1. Overview
2. When it is used
3. How it is performed

A bone density scan is a quick and painless procedure that involves lying on your back on an X-ray table so an area of your body can be scanned.

No special preparations are needed.

You may be able to remain fully clothed, depending on the area of your body being scanned.

But you'll need to remove any clothes that have metal fasteners, such as zips, hooks or buckles. In some cases, you may need to wear a gown.

Bone density scan (DEXA scan) - When it is used

When it is used-Bone density scan (DEXA scan)

Contents

1. Overview
2. When it is used
3. How it is performed

Bone density scans, also known as DEXA scans, help to work out your risk of breaking a bone.

They're often used to help diagnose bone-related health problems, such as osteoporosis, or to assess the risk of getting them.

Total body bone density scans can also be used to measure the amount of bone, fat and muscle in the body.

This type of scan is routinely used in children, but is only used as part of a research study in adults.

Bone density scan (DEXA scan) - Overview

Overview-Bone density scan (DEXA scan)

Contents

1. Overview
2. When it is used
3. How it is performed

A bone density scan uses low dose X-rays to see how dense (or strong) your bones are. You may also hear it called a DEXA scan.

Bone density scans are often used to diagnose or assess your risk of osteoporosis, a health condition that weakens bones and makes them more likely to break.

As well as being quick and painless, a bone density scan is more effective than normal X-rays in identifying low bone density.