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A DEXA (or DXA) scan is a painless, non-invasive imaging test that measures the strength and solidity of your bones. DEXA scans help doctors determine fracture risk, assess bone mass or bone loss and monitor the course of some treatments. This article will examine what a DEXA scan is, how it works, why you might have one, some of the risk factors for bone loss and how to access the results of your bone density test.
DEXA scan images look like other X-ray images, in shades of white and gray. If you’ve had a DEXA scan, PocketHealth can provide you with early access to your images and report on a secure platform you can access from any device.
DEXA stands for dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Also called a bone density scan, DEXA scans measure bone mass and mineral density. Healthy bones are strong and dense, full of calcified struts called trabeculae.
DEXA scans use two different types of X-ray beams to measure bone density. A specialized X-ray machine emits two types of X-ray energies during your scan. One X-ray beam passes through your bones, the other through your soft tissue. Together, they measure your bone mineral density.
A DEXA scan uses X-rays to calculate bone density, while scintigraphy, or bone scans, use an injected radiotracer to check your bone cells for disease or infection.
Bone scans also ascertain bone density, but that is not generally the primary reason they’re used. Because DEXA scans use X-rays, they are generally more widely available.
Although bones are dense and durable, they are not entirely solid. Bone density changes over time. As we age, we naturally experience the loss of some bone density: consequently, bone strength also decreases. Doctors use DEXA scans to check your bone density against an average to:
Some medications and treatments can increase the chance of bone density loss. Doctors often use DEXA scans to check your bone mineral density before and during treatments involving some:
Because bone density naturally decreases as we age, Canadian and American health authorities encourage people over 65 to have a DEXA scan to test for osteoporosis.
You may be referred for a bone density test earlier if you have one or more of the risk factors that increase the likelihood of osteoporosis, including:
Most Canadian provincial health care plans cover X-rays. In Ontario, DEXA scans are covered by OHIP with a doctor’s referral. If you elect to have a DEXA scan without a referral or at a private clinic, the cost will vary depending on your location and imaging clinic.
In the US, a DEXA scan generally costs between $100-$300. However, the exact amount you pay will vary according to your location, your imaging clinic and your insurance plan.
Painless and non-invasive, DEXA scans don’t require much preparation. Always inform the hospital or imaging clinic if you are pregnant when your appointment is booked and read your requisition so you can clarify any special instructions before your appointment.
Be sure to bring your requisition form and health or insurance card with you, and wear comfortable clothing. In most cases, you will be able to eat and drink as usual before your scan. You will need to remove all metal (e.g., belts, jewelry, zippers), but you will likely be able to wear your own clothes.
Although a bone density test DEXA scan does not involve intensive preparation, it’s important that you:
During your bone density test, you’ll lie on a specialized open X-ray exam table. The technician or radiologist may use foam blocks to prop you in a specific position.
The X-ray scanning arm will slowly pass over you. The low-dose X-rays are normally directed at your hips and lower spine, but they may focus on other areas too. You may be asked to hold your breath for a few moments during the scan.
A DEXA scan does not take very long, usually between 10-20 minutes. After the scan, you will be able to go about your day as usual.
An X-ray technician is not legally allowed to explain your results, although they can answer questions about the procedure itself. Your images will be sent to a radiologist for interpretation, then forwarded with a report to your referring physician who will discuss them with you at a follow-up appointment.
It can take anywhere from 2-3 days to more than a week for the results of your DEXA scan to reach your doctor. However, with PocketHealth, you can get early access to your images and report, often as soon as they’re released by the radiologist.
Your bone mineral density is expressed with two different numbers: the T-score and the Z-score.
A positive number on your T- or Z-score means your bone density is greater than average, a negative number means your bone density is less than average. Low bone density can increase your risk of bone fractures. Low bone density can increase your risk of bone fractures. PocketHealth Report Reader provides definitions and explanations of the medical terminology found in your bone mineral density report, helping you better understand your results.
For more information, we have an entire article about how to read your bone density scan.
It’s important to follow up with your doctor after a DEXA scan. There’s no substitute for expert medical advice, but My Care Navigator can provide you with a list of questions, tailored to your results, that you can use to frame the discussion with your doctor. It also highlights follow-up imaging recommendations your report contains, so you’re always fully away from what the next steps are.
When Blair was diagnosed with celiac disease, she had the first of many bone density scans. Sharing her treatment and results between doctors was difficult and time-consuming, until she discovered PocketHealth. Read Blair’s full story here.
“Having easy access to my records was so helpful. Not only did it give me the tools I needed to prepare for my appointments, but I could also look back at previous results, think about the questions to ask, and ultimately find better treatment options.”
Blair (PocketHealth User)
Staying on top of your bone health is important. Bones provide a sturdy support structure for your muscles and connective tissue, protect your vital organs and store and supply the calcium your cells need. A DEXA scan is a quick and painless procedure with low radiation exposure. This bone mineral density test helps doctors ensure your bones remain healthy and strong, even as you age.
PocketHealth makes it easy to access and review your results, allowing you to prepare any questions for your follow-up appointment. You can also share high-quality diagnostic images directly from the platform, ensuring your healthcare providers and loved ones have access to your most up-to-date health information. Staying informed helps you take control of your bone health and confidently manage your care.
