Exam Services

Radiology Affiliates Imaging offers a variety of diagnostic imaging services and procedures. Please select a procedure listed below to learn more about that study.

Bone Densitometry / DEXA

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What Is Bone Densitometry?

Dual-energy X-Ray absorptiometry (DEXA) is an imaging technology that uses a very low amount of X-Ray energy to detect the presence of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease that gradually weakens bones, leading to bone fragility and an increased chance of fractures to the spine, hips and wrists. This weakening may be due to aging or cause by other risk factors that combine with age. Often called the "Silent disease," osteoporosis rarely shows symptoms until a lot of bone mass has been lost. The most visible symptoms may include loss of height along with curvature of the upper back.

DEXA scanning can identify low bone density in patients at an early stage, enabling doctors to prescribe appropriate treatment before the condition worsens. Images of the lower spine and hips are most often used in checking for osteoporosis. The test results are then read thoroughly and interpreted by our radiologists.

For more information on this and other radiology procedures, please visit: www.radiologyinfo.com

Who Needs A DEXA Bone Density Scan?

While the disease affects both men and women, 80% of those affected are women. In fact, 22 million American women are affected by osteoporosis. Women have a higher risk for osteoporosis than men because women often have smaller, thinner frames. In addition, menopause causes women to produce less estrogen, a hormone that helps protect them against bone loss; 20% of bone mass can be lost in the 5-7 years following menopause.

If you're nearing menopause, your doctor or healthcare professional can give you good advice to help you avoid future problems with osteoporosis. If you are post-menopausal, stay in touch with your doctor to monitor your bone health on a regular basis. If you don't know if you have osteoporosis, ask whether a bone density test is right for you – talk to your doctor.

Factors that may add to the risk of osteoporosis include:

Female
Caucasian or Asian
Advanced age
History of bone fracture
Small, thin frame
Family history of osteoporosis
Post-menopause, including early or surgically induced
Low calcium diet
Lack of exercise
Eating disorders
Abnormal absence of menstrual periods
Certain medicines (such as steroids and anticonvulsants)
Alcohol or tobacco use
Thyroid disorders

What Should I Expect?

You will be asked to lie on your back on a padded table while a movable arm passes over your body. A technologist will remain with you and you will feel no sensations from the exam. Depending upon the scans required and the patient's condition the scan will take about 15 -20 minutes.

What Do The Test Results Mean?

The test compares your bone mineral density (BMD) to that of a "young adult" at peak bone strength and to people of your same age, called "age- matched." The difference between your result and that of a "young adult" is given as a T-score. This information, along with other factors, helps doctors in making a diagnosis. The following T-scores define the amount of bone loss:

Normal: T-score above -1
Osteopenic (low bone density): T-score between -1 and -2.5
Osteoporosis: T-score below -2.5

Your test results combine with other factors give you and your doctor an overall risk of fracture. Knowing your risk of a fracture is important, because there are many ways to prevent osteoporosis and to reduce fracture risks. After reviewing your DEXA Scan results your doctor may suggest a number of steps important in building bone strength. Suggestions may include: exercise, changes in diet, hormone therapy, or other medications known to improve bone strength.

How Do I Make An Appointment?

If you would like to make an appointment, please call (609) 585-8800 and select option 5. Or you can request an appointment on line.