Bone Densitometry (DEXA) is the established standard for measuring bone mineral density (BMD). DEXA is most often performed on the lower spine and hips and is most often used to diagnose osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition that often affects women after menopause; however, it may also be found in men. Osteoporosis involves a gradual loss of calcium, which causes the bones to become thinner and more likely to break. Unfortunately, this bone loss occurs without symptoms. DEXA can be used to assess an individual’s risk for developing fractures. DEXA is also effective in tracking the effects of treatment for osteoporosis and other conditions that cause bone loss. This is critical when one considers that about 10 million Americans have osteoporosis.
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- 65 years of age or older
- History of broken bones since turning age 50
- Family history
- Thin or underweight body habitus considering height
- Thin or underweight body habitus considering height
- Infrequent exercise and poor nutrition
- Other medical/health conditions and certain medications can create greater risk for the development of osteoporosis
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Essentially, a DEXA exam is a fast and painless way to assess and measure the mineral density of the patient’s bones, as bones that are less dense and more porous are weaker and more likely to fracture. With DEXA, the machine sends a thin, invisible beam of low-dose x-rays with two distinct energy peaks through the bones being examined. One peak is absorbed mainly by soft tissue and the other by bone. The soft tissue amount can be subtracted from the total and what remains is a patient's bone mineral density (BMD). DEXA machines feature special software that compute and display the bone density measurements on a computer monitor. This BMD information provides valuable insight regarding the overall health of one’s bones. This allows the patient to pursue lifestyle changes or medical remedies as needed to prevent further bone loss with aging.
MIMA Radiology uses GE IDXA equipment, and currently, we offer DEXA services at our Sheridan location by appointment.
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