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Dexascan

What is a Dexascan?

DEXA Scan stands for Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry, and is a method of Bone Mineral Density Assessment. Bone Mineral Density Assessment is used for the following:

• To detect the presence of osteoporosis in men and women with particular risk factors.
• To screen for osteoporosis, particularly in women making desicisions about hormone replacement therapy at menopause.
• To predict future risk.
• To monitor bone density in those with low normal levels and in those with osteoporosis undergoing treatment.

Osteoporosis

Or porous bone is a condition in which the strength and density of bone is reduced. Bones become brittle and susceptible to breaking. Osteoporosis is often called the “silent disease” because bone loss occurs without symptoms. The symptoms of osteoporosis do not occur until much bone strength is lost. The most visible symptoms may include loss of height along with a curvature of the upper back. Osteoporosis causes 1.5 million fractures per year, especially in the spine, hip and wrist. One out of every two women will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in her lifetime. Hip fractures are especially dangerous. Within one year of a hip fracture, 20 percent die and 50 percent of survivors have a permanent disability.

Testing for Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis can be diagnosed by having your bone mass measured. Bone density testing is performed by a procedure called dual energy x-ray absorptiometry or DEXA. This safe and painless test measures the amount of bone mineral. The amount of bone mineral relates directly to bone strength. The bone density test and consultation are covered by Medicare and other insurance companies for the approved account. A referral from the patient’s personal healthcare provider is necessary for reimbursement purposes. The osteoporosis program clinicians are certified by the International Society for Clinical Densitometry. CNOS has certified clinical densitometrists on staff.

What should I do before the test?
 

• Wear clothes without buttons, zippers, or plastic closures. A warm-up suitor shorts with an elastic waistband is suggested.
• This exam should not be performed within two weeks after any type of test is done using dye such as a barium x-ray, bone scan, or MRI.
• Calcium or vitamin supplements should not be taken on the day of the exam.
• This exam cannot be performed on women who are pregnant.
  

What is the DEXA procedure like?

Bone densitometry involves lying on a padded surface with a pillow under the head. For the hip scan, legs are extended with the feed held in a positioning block. For the lower spine scan, legs are elevated on a cushion. Each scan takes five to ten minutes. There is no discomfort and there are no injections of special dyes. Immediately following the bone density test, a Physician’s Assistant will meet with the patient to explain the results of the test and recommend a treatment plan. A written report will be sent to the patient’s personal healthcare provider.