Hospital Services » Departments » Diagnostic Imaging

Bone Densitometry (Dexa)

Uses low dose x-ray to measure your bone mineral density. The technology is dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Some bone loss is expected with aging, but severe bone loss or Osteoporosis is a dangerous disease. The bones most likely to break are the hip, spine and forearm. You can have a spine fracture and not know it. They are often painless. Hip fractures are painful and debilitating. Osteoporosis can be treated and it’s progress slowed.

  • This exam takes approximately 15 minutes.
  • Please do not take calcium supplements for at least 24 hours before your exam.
  • Wear comfortable clothing with no metal (ie: zippers, buttons or hooks). You will be asked to remove your shoes and lie on your back.

You should wait for seven days, if you have had a contrast study with X-ray, CT or MRI.

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