Bone Density Measurement/DEXA

DEXA stands for Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry.

Bone density scanning is a simple and pain free way to assess bone mineral density, risk for fracture and response to treatment. The only way to determine your bone health is to have your bone density measured. To measure bone mineral density or bone health, we use a DEXA scanner from Hologic at the Women’s Imaging Center. Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry is the most accurate and advanced technique now available. It uses a very small dose of radiation, emitted through a beam so focused that the radiologic technologist can sit right next to the examination table to monitor the procedure on a computer.

The bone density test measures bone density in your spine, hip and wrist. These are the most common sites of fracture due to Osteoporosis. A comparison is made of your bone density and two standards known as “age matched” and “young normal”. The age matched reading compares your bone density to what is expected in someone your age, sex and size. The young normal reading compares your density to the estimated peak bone density of a healthy young adult of the same sex.

Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by the loss of bone mass, which leads to reduced bone strength, poor bone quality, and an increased risk of fractures. While principally manifested by fractures in the hip, spine and wrist, all bones are subject to the ravages of osteoporosis, accounting for 1.5 million bone fractures every year. In addition to exercise, there are now pharmacologic agents which can be used to treat this condition and reduce the risk of fracture. Unfortunately, many patients who are at risk for complications of osteoporosis go undiagnosed.

The information from a bone density test enables your doctor to identify where you stand within ranges of normal and to determine whether you are at risk for fractures: generally, the lower your bone density, the higher your risk for fracture. This information will help you and your doctor decide the best course of action for your bone health. The Women’s Imaging Center of Radiology Associates believes that the best protection is early detection so ask your doctor today if you need an order for a DEXA.