What does DEXA stand for?
What does DEXA stand for?
During a bone density scan, a special type of X-ray called dual energy X-ray absorptiometry is passed through your body. This is shortened to DEXA.
What is the difference between DXA and DEXA?
A bone density test, DEXA, measures the mineral content of the bones in certain areas of the skeleton. It’s a way to measure bone loss as you age. Healthcare providers sometimes call these tests bone densitometry tests, or DXA.
How do I prepare for a DEXA scan?
DEXA scans are usually outpatient procedures. There aren’t any special preparations needed, except to stop taking any calcium supplements for 24 hours before the test. Wear comfortable clothing. Depending on the body area being scanned, you may have to take off any clothes with metal fasteners, zippers, or hooks.
Is DEXA scan expensive?
The test can be a waste of money. A DEXA scan costs about $125. And if your doctor prescribes a drug when you only have mild bone loss, you spend money you don’t need to.
How long does a DEXA scan take?
An X-ray detector inside the scanning arm measures the amount of X-rays that have passed through your body. This information will be used to produce an image of the scanned area. The scan usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. You’ll be able to go home after you have had it done.
Can a DEXA scan show a tumor?
While a DEXA scan isn’t typically used to diagnose cancer, it can provide your care team with important information to help them determine whether additional testing is needed. Using low levels of X-rays, the DEXA scan examines the entire skeleton or specific points on the body, such as the spine or hip.
What clothes to wear for DEXA scan?
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.
What are the results of a DEXA scan?
DEXA scan results can provide helpful details about your risk for osteoporosis (bone loss) and fractures (bone breaks). This test can also measure your body composition, such as body fat and muscle mass. What is a bone density test?
What is bone densitometry (DEXA)?
Bone densitometry, also called dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, DEXA or DXA, uses a very small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body (usually the lower (or lumbar) spine and hips) to measure bone loss.
Do I need a DEXA scan to prevent osteoporosis?
One of the first steps in prevention is knowing your bone health, and that involves getting a DEXA scan. What Is a DEXA Scan? Getting evaluated and treated for bone loss is crucial for every woman’s healthcare, and the DEXA scan is the standard way to screen for osteoporosis.
How does the DEXA machine work?
As the arm of the DEXA machine passes over the body, IT uses two different x-ray beams. The beams use very little radiation to keep the test safer, and help to distinguish bone from other tissues.