Bone Density Scan
A specialized X-ray test called a DEXA scan (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) that measures the mineral density of bones to diagnose osteoporosis or assess fracture risk. The scan is quick, painless, and uses very low levels of radiation.
Definition
A specialized X-ray test called a DEXA scan (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) that measures the mineral density of bones to diagnose osteoporosis or assess fracture risk. The scan is quick, painless, and uses very low levels of radiation.
In-Depth
What You Need to Know
Bone density scans are the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis and osteopenia, conditions in which bones become weak and brittle. The DEXA scan typically measures bone density at the hip and lumbar spine, and results are reported as a T-score comparing the patient's bone density to that of a healthy 30-year-old adult. A T-score of -1.0 or above is normal, between -1.0 and -2.5 indicates osteopenia, and -2.5 or below indicates osteoporosis. The test takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes and requires no special preparation. Bone density scans are recommended for women over 65, men over 70, and younger individuals with risk factors such as a history of fractures, long-term steroid use, or family history of osteoporosis.
Calls & Questions
What Patients Ask
Common phone questions about bone density scan — and how Front Desk handles scheduling and call routing automatically.
Common Patient Questions
- 1How often should I have a bone density scan?
- 2Do I need to do anything special to prepare for a DEXA scan?
- 3What does my T-score mean and is it concerning?
- 4Will my insurance cover a bone density scan?
How Front Desk Helps Your Practice
Front Desk can explain what a bone density scan involves, who should get one, and how to prepare for the appointment. It can schedule DEXA scan appointments, answer questions about screening recommendations, and provide information about what T-score results mean at a general level while directing clinical interpretation to the physician.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about bone density scan.
A specialized X-ray test called a DEXA scan (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) that measures the mineral density of bones to diagnose osteoporosis or assess fracture risk. The scan is quick, painless, and uses very low levels of radiation. Bone density scans are the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis and osteopenia, conditions in which bones become weak and brittle. The DEXA scan typically measures bone density at the hip and lumbar spine, and results are reported as a T-score comparing the patient's bone density to that of a healthy 30-year-old adult.
Your orthopedics provider can answer this during your appointment. Front Desk helps by explain what a bone density scan involves, who should get one, and how to prepare for the appointment. It can schedule DEXA scan appointments, answer questions about screening recommendations, and provide information about what T-score results mean at a general level while directing clinical interpretation to the physician.
Your orthopedics provider can answer this during your appointment. Front Desk helps by explain what a bone density scan involves, who should get one, and how to prepare for the appointment. It can schedule DEXA scan appointments, answer questions about screening recommendations, and provide information about what T-score results mean at a general level while directing clinical interpretation to the physician.
Your orthopedics provider can answer this during your appointment. Front Desk helps by explain what a bone density scan involves, who should get one, and how to prepare for the appointment. It can schedule DEXA scan appointments, answer questions about screening recommendations, and provide information about what T-score results mean at a general level while directing clinical interpretation to the physician.
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