Bone Mineral Densitometry (Bone Density Scan)

We measure the amount of mineral in your hip and spine to help diagnose osteoporosis.

What we do

A bone density scan, also known as a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan, takes pictures of your bones using small amounts of ionizing radiation.

Bone densitometry measures the amount of mineral in your hip and spine and is used to diagnose osteoporosis.

A DXA machine looks like a large, flat table with an x-ray generator underneath. An arm-like imaging device is suspended over the table, and slowly passes over the area being examined. During the scan you will lie still on the table while the machine takes pictures, which appear on a computer monitor.

The exam is painless. However, you will be asked to lie very still to get accurate results.

What to expect

Before your appointment

Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment. If you are late, your appointment may be rescheduled. Our team tries to stay on time, but your appointment may be delayed by unforeseen circumstances. It is a good idea to be prepared in case your appointment runs late.

When you arrive, check in at the Medical Imaging reception desk. You will be asked to fill out a short medical history form that asks about any medication you take, diseases or conditions you may have and any family history of osteoporosis.

Please let the receptionist or technologist know if you have had a barium x-ray in the last two weeks or if you had a nuclear medicine scan or injection of an x-ray dye within the last week.

If you wish to have a doctor other than your referring doctor copied on the results report, please let the receptionist know before your test.

Note that female patients aged 10 to 55 will be asked if there is any chance of pregnancy.

At your appointment

You will be given a hospital gown to wear, and your height and weight will be measured.

Since the scan uses an X-ray, all metal jewelry needs to be removed. The bone density machine will be positioned over your torso. We will ask you to change positions a few times while pictures are taken of your lower back and hips.

The entire scan takes about 15 minutes. A report will be sent to your physician within two weeks.