Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scan, also known as a bone mineral density test, is painless and simple to conduct and usually takes less than ten minutes. The radiation exposure is minimal, and the test is very precise. During a DEXA scan a scanner will pass over one area of your skeleton. 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. DEXA scans are offered at our Women’s Center, Marrero and Uptown locations.

Despite advances in diagnostic techniques and therapies, many people at high risk of osteoporodic fractures are currently untreated.  One of the most recent advances in DEXA technology is the incorporation of a new tool developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) called FRAX to help address this issue.  FRAX allows the incorporation of a patient’s clinical risk factors to more easily identify those at greatest risk of fracture and in need of treatment.  FRAX is applied automatically on every patient’s DEXA exam. Click here to learn more about DEXA, FRAX and osteoporosis, and how DEXA technology benefits patients and physicians.

Preparations - Instructions for patients

• Unless instructed otherwise, eat normally on the day of the exam but avoid taking calcium supplements for at least three hours prior to your appointment.
• Please refrain from wearing zippers, buttons, grommets or any metal on your clothing.
• You should not have had a barium study, radioisotope injection, oral or intravenous contrast material from a CT scan or MRI within seven days prior to your DEXA test.
  
  Please note: A single forearm study will be performed if patient exceeds weight limit of 300 pounds.