What is a DXA Scan?
A DXA scan is a type of medical test which is used to estimate the bone density of a patient. Such tests are useful for spotting early declines in bone density, which could be indicators of osteoporosis or other conditions. DXA scans are also called DEXA scans or bone densitometry tests, and they are typically recommended for the elderly, as they are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis. In rare cases, such scans may also be used as diagnostic tools for younger patients. DXA stands for Dual energy E-ray Absorptiometry. During the DXA scan, two x-rays with different levels of energy are aimed at the area of concern, and the absorption rate of the x-rays is used to calculate the concentration of minerals like calcium in the bone. Bones with a high concentration are deemed to be dense, at low risk of breaking, while bones with low density are porous, and potentially at risk of fracturing. Typically, the DXA scan is performed on a bone which is at high risk of fracturing from osteop
• A DXA scan is a special x-ray that can accurately measure your bone density. It is quick and painless. • The results of a DXA scan can help predict who is at risk for an osteoporosis-related fracture and who needs treatment before fracture occurs. • The scan is most often performed in the hips or spine where people are likely to suffer an osteoporosis-related fracture. • A DXA scan emits a minimal amount of radiation. It is similar to the amount people are exposed to in the daily environment.
DXA stands for Dual energy X-ray Absorptiometry. The DXA scan uses a very small X-ray dose (less than a day of normal background radiation) to measure the density of bone in key places in the body. Usually the hip and spine are measured because these areas are among the most liable to break if the bone becomes too thin. Sometimes measurements are made of the wrist. You do not usually have to get undressed to have a DXA scan. You will be asked to lie on a firm couch for a few minutes while the arm of the DXA machine passes over you. It is painless, and there are no injections involved.
DXA stands for Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry . The X-ray beam contains two distinct energy peaks. One is absorbed by soft tissues and the other by the bone. By subtracting one reading from the other a figure is produced which represents the bone mineral density. There are two scores produced:- • The T-Score compares your reading with that of healthy bones in people aged approximately 30 (peak density) . If the reading is above -1 then no action is usually taken. A reading of between -1 and -2.5 is classed as Osteopenia. This indicates a bone density between normal and Osteoporosis. You may be recommended treatment. A reading of -2.5 or greater means you are classified as having Osteoporosis. • The Z-Score compares your reading with healthy bones in your age group. A repeat scan is often recommended in 2-3 years. This will tell your doctor the rate of loss of bone or if you are on treatment, it will give some indication of whether the treatment is being effective. What do I have to d
Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) scans measure the density of bones. This test is currently the most accurate and reliable way of diagnosing osteoporosis. It is a simple, painless procedure that uses very low doses of radiation. Patients are asked to lie down for 10-15 minutes while an x-ray arm passes over them to take an image of their hip or spine. These scanners are usually in hospitals but not all hospitals have one, which can mean long waiting times. Where has the funding come from? In 2006 the National Osteoporosis Society received a £3 million donation from the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons, which was designated to fund a new scanning project established to help reduce the deficit in DXA scanners in England and Wales. Research had suggested that mobile scanners might help to improve services in those areas where patients had to travel considerable distances to their nearest DXA scanner. However the work completed during the early stages of the project revealed that in
