DEXA Scans

A bone density scan, also known as DEXA (dual energy absorptiometry) uses x-ray equipment and a computer to
measure bone density. The results of the scan can help to estimate your risk of fractures in different bones or monitor how well treatment for osteoporosis is working. The scan will be carried out by one of our experienced radiographers.

About Our DEXA Scanner

At Medique Health, we use the Hologic Horizon DXA system, featuring the latest densitometry technology.

Key features of our advanced system:

  • High-resolution ceramic digital detectors array featuring ultra-fast, high-output, low-noise ceramic detectors that provide better bone mapping and images.
  • High-frequency dual energy X-ray source that is smaller and lighter than previous generations.
  • Dynamic Calibration™ system, delivering real-time pixel-by-pixel calibration through bone and tissue equivalents for greater long-term measurement stability.
  • OnePass™ single-sweep scanning, designed to eliminate beam overlap errors and image distortion found in rectilinear acquisition techniques, delivering superb image quality and precision.

Before Your
DEXA Scan

No special preparation is required. You may eat, drink, and take medication as usual. Upon arrival, you will sign a consent form. No need to remove jewelry, but you will be asked to wear a hospital gown. The clinic staff will guide you through the procedure. Ensure you inform the clinic if you are pregnant or think you may be.

During Your
DEXA Scan

The scan is quick, painless, and takes about 5 minutes. You will lie on your back on an open X-ray table, staying still to avoid blurring. A scanning arm moves over your body, passing low-dose X-rays. The scan focuses on your hip and lower spine, but sometimes other areas like your forearm may also be scanned.

After Your
DEXA Scan

No special aftercare is needed, and you will receive a printed report immediately. Your scan data is securely stored in the DEXA system, ensuring complete privacy and protection under strict security measures. All patient information is kept confidential. You can resume your daily activities as usual without any restrictions.

Your results

A DEXA scan compares your bone density with the bone density expected for a young healthy adult and a healthy adult of your own age, gender and ethnicity. The difference is calculated as a standard deviation (SD) score. This measures the difference between your bone density and the expected value in terms of the natural spread of values in the healthy population.
The difference between your measurement and that of a young healthy adult is known as a T score, and the difference between your measurement and that of someone of the same age is known as a Z score.

DEXA Scan Results Interpretation

Above -1 SD → Normal bone mineral density (BMD).
Between -1 and -2.5 SD → Mildly reduced BMD compared to peak bone mass (PBM).
At or below -2.5 SD → Defined as osteoporosis.

Understanding Your Z-Score

If your Z-score is below -2, your bone density is lower than expected for your age.
DEXA results indicate bone strength, but they don’t necessarily predict fractures.
A person with low bone density may never experience a fracture, while someone with average bone density may have multiple fractures.
Other factors such as age, sex, and past falls also influence fracture risk.

The FRAX Tool

  • Developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to predict a 10-year fracture risk.
  • Applicable for individuals aged 40 to 90 years.
  • Based on bone mineral density (BMD) and other risk factors like age and sex.
  • Uses algorithms to calculate 10-year probability of major fractures in the spine, hip, shoulder, or forearm.
  • Your referring doctor will review your printed report and assess all individual risk factors.
  • Treatment decisions are made based on your overall fracture risk and medical history.

Risks and Safety Considerations for DEXA Scans

Do I need to be referred for a DEXA scan?

Please be advised self-referral is only available to females over 40 years of age. For anyone else you will need a referral from a clinician.

Are there any risks associated with having a DEXA scan?

As with x-rays, bone density scans use radiation. The level of radiation is extremely low, and the benefits of the scan are thought to outweigh any risks. You should not have a DEXA scan if you are pregnant. If you are pregnant or think you could be pregnant, you must let your referring doctor or radiographer know.

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