Bone Density Testing, DEXA Scan, Medical Services
Bone Density Testing is a medical procedure used to determine bone density or strength. This can identify osteoporosis or osteopenia, a milder form of bone loss. Bone density tests are easy, painless, and non-invasive. Your doctor will use these results to test for and monitor conditions such as osteoporosis. There are several types of bone density tests , but the preferred method for accuracy is the dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan. Very little preparation will be required on your part for this exam. Usually, there is no need to change your normal routine. The only exception is if you take a calcium supplement, your doctor may ask that you stop taking it 24 hours before your test. It is also important to inform your doctor if you have recently had an oral contrast or nuclear medicine test, as this may interfere with the scan. As with any imaging, please tell your doctor if you may be pregnant.