Bone Densitometry Scan For Osteoporosis
- The test that has been ordered for you is a bone densitometry study. It is also called a DEXA scan and is performed to determine if you have osteoporosis.The scan measures the density of your bones compared to national database of patients of the same sex and age.
- Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment time. There is no preparation for this test. You may eat, drink, and take your medication. We suggest that you wear pants, sweat suits or dresses with no metallic buttons or zippers, but patient gowns are available if a change of dress is necessary. Please inform the technologist if you have had barium studies or procedures in which dye was injected within the last week.
- You will be asked to lie on your back on a padded table for the test.The examination takes about 20 minutes. The test uses a very small dose of radiation and is not considered dangerous.
- A registered technologist will perform the procedure. The data collected will be organized and presented to the Radiologist for interpretation. The technologist will not be able to tell you the results of your exam.
- A Radiologist is a medical doctor that specializes in x-rays and other imaging tests.
- The Radiologist will dictate a report. It may take up to 2 weeks for your doctor to receive and review the final report. You will receive your report from your doctor.
If you have any questions about this test, please call the Radiology department at 940-766-8749. Please call us at this number if you must cancel or reschedule your exam.
