DEXA SCAN BONE MINERAL DENSITY - THREE SITES (SPINE, HIP & FOREARM)

DEXA Scan Bone Mineral Density - Three Sites (Spine, Hip and Forearm) Overview

A dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan for bone mineral density (BMD) measures the bone strength of an individual. This test checks the risk of fractures and evaluates the bone density at three central places: the spine, hip, and forearm. These body parts are the most susceptible to developing osteoporosis fractures.  

What is DEXA Scan Bone Mineral Density - Three Sites (Spine, Hip and Forearm)? 

A DEXA scan evaluates the patient's bone mineral density by using X-ray at low doses. It also assesses the forearm, hip, and spine. To determine the patient's bone strength and the risk of possible fractures, the patient's results are compared with a healthy young adult (T-score) and individuals of the same age (Z-score). 

List of Parameters Considered During DEXA Scan

• Measurement of Bone mineral density (BMD) 
• Evaluation of T and Z scores 
• Evaluation against the standard reference values 

Reasons for Taking a DEXA Scan

• An osteoporosis diagnosis can be established with greater certainty. 
• Monitoring the rate of reduction in bone density. 
• Evaluating the effect of treatment on patients with osteoporosis. 
• Estimating the risk of fractures in elderly patients. 

When and Who Needs a DEXA Scan? 

Indications: 

• Women who are postmenopausal and are older than 50 
• Men older than 70 
• Patients with a history of sustaining fractures from relatively minor physical activities 
• Patients with certain medical conditions influencing bone metabolism e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, and long-term steroid therapy  
• Patients with a family history of osteoporosis 
• Patients undergoing treatment for osteoporosis 

Patient Demographics: 

• Women who are postmenopausal 
• Older adults 
• Patients with chronic diseases which affect the bones 
• Patients on prolonged steroid therapy 

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Rapid and painless procedure 
• non-invasive test with little exposure to radiation 
• critical in managing bone health 

Illness Diagnosed with DEXA Scan

• Bone Density – Normal 
• Bone Density - Osteopenia (Low Bone Mass) 
• Bone Loss from Chronic Diseases or Medication 

Preparing for DEXA Scan:

• Don't take calcium supplements within the last 24 hours. 
• Dress comfortably; do not wear clothes with metal zippers or buttons. 
• If you have had a barium exam or any imaging with contrast recently, alert your physician.  

Pre-requisites: 

• Recent scans using nuclear medicine and X-ray with contrast should not be done. 
• No concern of potential pregnancy. 

 Best time to Take DEXA Scan: 

• There is no specific ideal time. 
• For those at high risk, it is suggested to take it every 1 to 2 years.  

Eligibility: 

• Most people apart from those pregnant are fine to undertake this. 

Procedure for Taking a DEXA Scan: 

• The individual rests on the examination table. 
• Their spine, hips, and forearms are scanned with a low dose X-ray beam. 
• Roughly 10 - 20 weeks are needed.  
• Results obtained undergo analysis and comparison with necessary benchmarks. 

Caution Before Taking the Test: 

• Following not having calcium supplements prior is needed to enhance their chances of success for the test. 
• Alert your physician for any prior imaging done with contrast.