Preparation for the exam is to wear clothing without snaps, zippers, or metal. You will lie flat on your back on a padded table. You be asked to hold still while the exam is being done. The scan takes about 15 minutes. |
Dexa Scan
Dexa Scan (Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry) or DPX scan is a quick painless procedure for measuring bone loss and can be useful in diagnosing osteoporosis.
The scan is performed on the lower spine and both hips. It involves passing low energy x-rays through the bones to measure the mineral or calcium content of bones. This is used as a measure of the BMD (bone mineral density) in your body. Your measurements are then compared to those of reference population based on relevant information such as age, weight, sex and ethnic background. This give us the ability to determine if you need to take certain steps to protect your bone health to prevent osteoporosis. It also calculates your risk of developing fractures in the future, well before a fracture happens. It can also monitor the effects of treatment of osteoporosis. |