Bone density scan (DEXA) Matawai apiapi kōiwi
A bone density scan is a special low-dose x-ray test to look at how dense or strong your bones are. It is often called a DEXA scan. DEXA stands for dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry.
When you would have a DEXA scan
A DEXA scan is used to check how dense and strong your bones are. It can help your healthcare provider decide if you have Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition that causes your bones to be thinner and weaker than normal.
Having a DEXA scan
The DEXA scan is done with x-ray equipment and a computer. The scanner sends a thin, invisible beam of low-dose x-rays through your body and the computer calculates the density of your bones.
There are no tunnels or confined spaces, no injections and the procedure is not painful.
The scan usually takes between 10 and 30 minutes, depending on which part of your body is being examined.
Before your DEXA scan
You do not need to do anything to prepare for your scan. It is helpful if you:
- wear loose, comfortable clothing
- avoid clothes with metal zips, belts or buttons.
You may be asked to change into a gown for the scan.
If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, discuss this with your healthcare provider and the DEXA staff. The scan involves a very small dose of radiation, so it is not suitable if you are pregnant.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have:
- recently had a barium examination
- been injected with a contrast dye for a computed tomography (CT) scan or any other type of scan in the last week.
If you have, you may need to wait to have the DEXA scan.
Let the person doing your scan know if you have had spinal surgery (particularly with metal implants) or hip surgery (involving screws, pins or a hip replacement).
Results of your DEXA scan
A specialist doctor (radiologist) will view the images and write a report about what the scan shows. They will send their report to the healthcare provider who requested the test for you.
Your healthcare provider will then discuss the test results with you at a follow-up appointment, over the phone or by email or text message.
Risks of having a DEXA scan
Having a bone density scan (DEXA) is very safe. The scan uses a much lower level of radiation than a standard x-ray.
Referral information
You will need to be referred for a DEXA scan in the public health system by your healthcare provider. You cannot self-refer to have a DEXA scan done in the public health system.
If a scan in the public health system is not available, your healthcare provider can refer you to have it done privately but you will need to pay for it. You can also self-refer.