DEXA Scan in Monroe, Georgia
Bone Density Insights from DEXA Scans
DEXA scans provide unparalleled insights into what is happening within the human body. This tool helps medical teams to unearth the “silent disease” of osteoporosis when other symptoms may not be evident and before bone breaks begin. This advanced x-ray technology can provide you with a clear picture of your current bone density. Using this scan, our medical team helps the people of Monroe, Georgia to identify the early stages of bone density loss and define targeted interventions.
Benefits of DEXA Scans
The clarity and precision delivered by DEXA scans is truly unrivaled. This one, simple non-invasive test provides you with a full body visualization that highlights varying degrees of bone density. By getting this complete and detailed picture, your medical team can gain the insights needed to prevent, treat and manage early-stage osteopenia and more advanced cases of osteoporosis. DEXA scans are safe; the amount of radiation used is less than one-tenth the dose of a chest x-ray and less than a day’s exposure to natural radiation. DEXA scan benefits include:
- Non-evasive assessment to understand future risk for bone loss or fractures
- Precise measurements
- Tracks bone health changes over time
- Quick, easy, painless
DEXA Scan Results
Every DEXA Scan generates a detailed report that your medical team member will review with you to make sure you understand the results. Our medical providers rely on these results in creating a care plan to address your bone health.
What to Expect: DEXA Scan
Preparation: Avoid clothing with metal as you will need to remove it during the scan. You will also be asked to remove metal jewelry along with your shoes before the scan. If you are wearing tight fitting clothing, we may ask you to change into a gown/robe to get the most accurate information. Otherwise, you can wear your regular clothing. Women who have a menstrual cycle will be asked to take a pregnancy test prior to the test. We will not perform this scan on pregnant women to avoid the risk of exposing the fetus to radiation. Please stop taking your calcium supplement 24-hours before the scan.
During the scan: An X-Ray technician will perform the scan and it will take approximately 15 minutes. The scan will take place on a flat table and the technician will be in the room during the scan. The technician will help position you correctly and use positioning devices such as foam blocks to help hold the desired position.
After the scan: Your results will be shared with a medical provider after your scan, and you will need to schedule a follow-up medical appointment to discuss the results and any medical recommendations.
Learn More about Osteoporosis
Listen to our three-part podcast series on Osteoporosis to learn more about how the disease progresses and what can be done to prevent and manage it.
Frequently Asked Questions DEXA Scan
What is a DEXA scan?
A DEXA, or Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry, scan is a medical imaging technique that is used to measure bone density and body composition. It is used to diagnose osteoporosis and risk of fractures as well as being used to help people understand the relative balance of fat and lean mass in their bodies.
How is a DEXA scan done?
DEXA scans are done similarly to other x-rays or imaging techniques. Patients will lay on a table with the device passes over their body emitting low-energy x-rays that create an image of the body. They are non-invasive and painless.
What does a DEXA scan show?
DEXA scans show the bone density of various areas of the body. By reviewing this data, medical professionals are able to determine if there are abnormal densities, such as the diminishing bone density seen in osteoporosis.
How long does a DEXA scan take?
DEXA scans usually take 20 minutes.
How often should I get a DEXA scan?
Please consult with your medical provider as the time in between scans will vary based upon your medical history and conditions.
How much does a DEXA scan cost and is it covered by insurance?
DEXA scans are eligible for insurance coverage. Please contact your insurance provider to understand your insurance coverage. Most insurance providers will pay for a DEXA scan once every two years and possibly at a greater frequency. We have a low self-pay rate for patients who may need more frequent scans than once every two years.