![]() A T-score of -1.0 or higher is normal bone density. ![]() Calculating this involves comparing a person’s scan with the bone density of a healthy young adult of the same sex.Īccording to the World Health Organization (WHO): The results of a DEXA scan for bone density involve a T-score. Anyone who is or may be pregnant should discuss other options with their doctor. As such, it is not advisable for pregnant people. ![]() However, because it uses X-ray energy, there is exposure to radiation. The DEXA scan is generally safe for most people. Private insurance plans may also cover DEXA scans under certain circumstances as part of their preventive benefits. Medicare Part B covers a DEXA scan once every 24 months, or more often if necessary, for people with certain risk factors. According to an older report from the American Board of Internal Medicine, with insurance coverage, a DEXA scan can cost about $125. The cost depends on many factors, such as where a person lives, where they have the scan, and whether they have health insurance that covers it. Some experts report that it can take just 6 minutes or 10–20 minutes. The scan is painless and relatively quick, usually taking 10–30 minutes, depending on the equipment and the areas being scanned. The technician may ask them to complete a questionnaire about their medical history, as this can help a doctor determine their fracture risk. After the scanĪfterward, the person changes back into their clothes. Using an equation, it is possible to use these measurements to calculate body fat percentage. When the purpose is to measure body composition, the machine scans the entire body to check skinfold thickness at specific sites. This checks the risk of a fracture in the spine. At some locations, there may also be a vertebral fracture assessment during a DEXA scan. In some cases, the technician scans the wrist, finger, and lower arm. These are common locations of fractures in people with osteoporosis. When the purpose is to measure bone density, the technician tends to scan the hips and spine. It is crucial to remain still throughout the scan. During the scanĭuring the procedure, the imaging arm moves slowly over the person’s body while a beam of low-dose energy passes through them. The technician places the imaging device above them and the X-ray generator below them. A person may need to change into a hospital gown and remove any metal objects that they are wearing, such as jewelry and eyeglasses.Īt the start of the scan, the person lies on their back on the exam table. Before the scanĪn X-ray technician performs the scan on an outpatient basis. However, anyone taking a calcium supplement may need to stop taking it around 24 hours before the scan. ![]() Overall, females tend to develop loss of bone density sooner than males.Ī person does not need to prepare - they can eat and drink as usual on the day of the procedure. The foundation also recommends a scan for anyone who has gone through menopause before age 65 and has any risk factor for low bone density, such as steroid medication use or low body weight. People receiving treatment for osteoporosis may require a scan every 1 or 2 years. The ideal frequency may vary, depending on the results. The Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation recommends that females aged over 65 and males aged over 70 have at least one DEXA scan. These scans can help indicate how effective osteoporosis treatments are because they can show whether the condition is staying the same, worsening, or improving. This can help doctors diagnose and assess osteoporosis, which causes the bones to thin and become more fragile.ĭiagnosing and treating osteoporosis early can keep it from worsening and reduce the risk of fractures.Īfter the first DEXA scan, a doctor may schedule another in a few years to look for any changes. A DEXA scan can show whether a person’s bones have lost density and have a high risk of fracturing.
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