The DEXA-scan can show whether you are at risk for a fracture. If you have already broken a bone and your doctor thinks you might have osteoporosis, the test can confirm the diagnosis. The test results are reported as a number. If your doctor says your result was –2.5 SD (standard deviation) or more, this means you have osteoporosis. A test finding of –1SD to –2.5SD means you have some bone loss.
This test is done by aiming a low dose x-ray at the most vulnerable areas for bone loss. The amount of bone loss is calculated from the amount of energy that travels through the bone and is picke up by the detector. The test tatkes about 10 minutes and is done with the patient fully clothed.
Preparation
No special preparations are required.
This test involves minimal radiation exposure.
The information from this test enables the doctor to compare your bone density to others your age. Scores lower than normal indicate you may have oteopenia or osteoporosis and be at higher risk of bone fracture. The results can help your doctor decide on any treatment that may be needed.