Dexascan Information

What is a DEXA Scan?
DEXA Scan stands for Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry, and it is a method of Bone Mineral Density Assessment. This assessment is used to:

•  Detect the presence of osteoporosis in men and women with particular risk factors
•  Screen for osteoporosis, particularly in women making decisions about hormone replacement therapy at menopause
•  Predict future fracture risk
•  Monitor bone density in those with low normal levels and in those with osteoporosis undergoing treatment

Forms:

Patient Info Form

Common Uses of this Procedure
Dexascan is used to diagnose osteoporosis on men and women with the following particular risk factors:

Female	A family history of osteoporosis	Lack of exercise
Caucasian	Removal of the ovaries	Eating disorders
Advanced age	Early menopause	Certain medicines (such as steroids or anticonvulsants)
History of bone fracture	A low calcium diet	Alcohol and tobacco
A small thin frame

How Does it Work?
Certified medical personnel will conduct the exam. You will be asked to lie without moving on the scan table but you will be able to breathe normally throughout the procedure. A scanner will pass over one area of your skeleton: your lower spine, wrist or hip. A dual energy beam of very low dose X-Rays passes through that area of your body and is measured by a detector. You will not feel anything during the exam. The scan is repeated for a second skeletal area.

Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) technology works by measuring the amount of X-Rays that are absorbed by the bones in your body. The two X-Ray energies allow the machine to differentiate between bone and soft tissue, giving a very accurate estimation of bone density. The radiologist will produce a report for your physician based on the bone density measurements and your medical history..

Patient Comfort
You will not feel any discomfort during the procedure.

Even though x-rays are used, the amount absorbed by the patient is only about 1/10th of that received from a chest x-ray. Other x-ray procedures have even higher x-ray doses. The x-ray dose from the bone densitometry test is comparable to the naturally occurring radiation you are exposed to in one week.

Caution : Even though the x-ray dose from the bone densitometry test is very low, please inform the operator if you are pregnant or might be pregnant before your test.

Preparation Required
Eat normally on the day of the exam, but avoid calcium supplements the day of your appointment. If possible, wear a two piece outfit so you will not need to disrobe entirely and avoid wearing clothing with metal (buttons, zippers, etc.)..

After the Test
The patient can resume normal activities.

Results of the Test
At MDI, we have a team of radiologists available at all times so the test will be interpreted promptly. The results will be phoned, faxed, mailed, or delivered electronically to the referring physician. He/She will share the results with the patient.

How to Schedule an Appointment
To schedule a Dexascan with Modern Diagnostic Imaging, please call us at (480) 445 - 9961.

[Click here for directions]