Osteoporosis means “porous bones” and is a debilitating disease that can lead to bone fracture. More than 52 million Americans have low bone density and are at risk for osteoporosis – 80% are women. DEXA scans (which stands for Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry) are an advanced test available for measuring bone density. If a loss of bone mass is discovered, especially early, patients can receive treatment to prevent breakage and further loss. Crossroads Community Hospital is proud to offer this advanced test, and echoes the National Osteoporosis Foundation’s recommendation that women over 65 should get a DEXA scan every two years to diagnose bone density loss and hopefully prevent osteoporosis.

All of our DEXA diagnostic technologists are highly skilled professionals who are certified in the field of radiology.

Patients typically return every two years to monitor changes, depending on the individual clinical history. Remember to stop take any calcium or vitamin supplements at least 24 hours prior to exam and arrive in comfortable, metal-free (zippers, snaps, etc.) clothing.

In addition, a DEXA Scan has the capability to obtain an Instant Vertebral Assessment (IVA), which is a 10-second, low-dose x-ray scan of the entire spine, allowing doctors to see existing vertebral fractures, which may indicate the need for more aggressive treatment, even if bone density results are in the “normal” range.

What to expect during your Bone Density Exam
During your Bone Density test, you will lay comfortably on a padded table while the DEXA Unit scans two or more areas, usually the fracture-prone hip and spine. The entire process takes only minutes to complete. A Bone Density test does not involve any injections or invasive procedures, and you remain fully clothed.

You should not have a barium study, radioisotope injection, oral or intravenous contrast material from a CT scan or MRI within seven days prior to you Bone Density Scan.

We offer bone density services on an outpatient basis Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For more information, please contact:
(618) 241-8564