OUR SERVICESA Bone Densitometry scan is also known as a DXA or DEXA (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry) scan. It uses x-ray equipment and a computer to measure your bone density.
Medical Imaging Partnership has a huge amount of experience in delivering high-quality DEXA scans which are interpreted and reported by specialist radiologists.
OUR SERVICESA Bone Densitometry scan is also known as a DXA or DEXA (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry) scan. It uses x-ray equipment and a computer to measure your bone density.
Medical Imaging Partnership has a huge amount of experience in delivering high-quality DEXA scans which are interpreted and reported by specialist radiologists.
You may have concerns or questions about having a DEXA scan at Medical Imaging Partnership and we have produced a list of Frequently Asked Questions which we hope you will find useful and will help you feel confident and comfortable.
They are not designed to replace an informed discussion with your Clinician before your appointment. However, we will be able to answer any questions or concerns about your scan when you arrive for your appointment.
What is a bone density (DEXA) scan?
A bone density scan is also known as a DXA or DEXA (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry) scan. It uses x-ray equipment and a computer to measure your bone density.
A DEXA scan is more effective than normal x-rays and will tell you if you have normal bone density, low bone density (osteopenia) or osteoporosis. It is endorsed by the National Osteoporosis Society as the ‘gold standard’ for diagnosing osteoporosis. The lower your bone density, the greater the risk of breaking a bone.
The amount of x-ray radiation used in a DEXA scan is very low – much lower than a standard x-ray which means the radiographer taking the scan can remain with you.
A DEXA scan can help you and your clinician:
Are there any risks or side-effects from a DEXA scan?
The amount of radiation used during a DEXA scan is very low – equivalent to less than two days’ exposure to natural background radiation.
It is important to tell your referring Clinician and the radiographer if there is any possibility that you are pregnant as radiation can be harmful for an unborn baby.
There are no side effects. After your scan, you will be able to go home or return to work and you are safe to drive.
Do I need to prepare or do anything differently before my appointment for my DEXA scan?
No. You can eat and drink as normal and continue with any of your usual medicines.
No special preparations are required. However, please notify the DEXA team if you have had a radiology procedure including CT or MRI using a contrast / dye or a nuclear medicine scan, in the past few days.
Can I bring a relative/friend to my DEXA scan appointment?
Yes, subject to infection control restrictions. Although only in special circumstances will they be permitted to accompany you into the actual scan room.
What happens when I arrive and during the DEXA scan?
Please follow the arrival instructions as set out in your appointment confirmation letter and bring the completed health questionnaire you will have been sent.
Please note that you may not need to wear a gown, although you will be asked to remove any items that might contain metal (eg a bra or a belt).
The radiographer or imaging assistant will explain the procedure and give you the opportunity, to ask any questions before you consent to proceed with the examination. You must understand what is involved and be satisfied that you have received enough information about the investigation before you consent to the examination. For more information about informed consent please visit: www.nhs.uk/conditions/consent-to-treatment.
You will be weighed, and your height measured.
The radiographer will ask you to lie on the scanner couch and will move you into the correct position. If you are having your hip scanned, they will rotate your leg inwards, for a scan of the lower spine, your legs will be supported with a pad. It is usual to scan your left hip and lower spine, however, if you have had surgery in this area, other parts of the body may be scanned instead, such as your forearm.
The DEXA scanner machine will slowly pass over your body. Two scans may be taken, and you will be asked to remain very still so the images are not blurred.
How long does a DEXA scan take?
The DEXA scan itself usually takes about 20 minutes. Altogether you can expect to be in the centre for around 30 minutes.
Will a DEXA scan be uncomfortable?
No, not at all. Afterwards, you will be able to go home or return to work and you are safe to drive.
What happens next and when will I get the results?
After the scan, the report will be sent to your referring Clinician.
Can I eat and drink after a DEXA scan?
Yes, you can drink and east as normal afterwards.
If you are an NHS patient having a DEXA scan at a Medical Imaging Partnership site or centre, you will need a referral from your GP or healthcare specialist.
Please contact our referral team on 01243 534 043 if your GP has given you a reference number to make a booking. Otherwise, we will be in touch when we have received your referral centrally.
Medical Imaging Partnership also works in partnership with a number of NHS providers supporting them in the delivery of their diagnostic requests. They may have transferred your care to us and we will be in touch with you to arrange a convenient time, date and location for us to undertake your investigation.
We offer DEXA scans to patients with private medical insurance, or those who wish to self-pay.
Appointments for a private DEXA scan at Medical Imaging Partnership are available at short notice and reports are usually turned around within 24-48 hours.
If you would like to make an appointment for a DEXA scan, please please click and complete the ‘Request An Appointment’ form or call us on 01293 534 043.
To arrange a DEXA scan with Medical Imaging Partnership you will need written referral from a healthcare professional. If you do not have a referral, please contact our team who will be happy to discuss your options.
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Tel: 01293 534 043
Email: contactus@medicalimaging.org.uk
Medical Imaging Partnership Ltd.
Unit 5, 1st Floor The Enterprise Centre,
Kelvin Lane, Crawley,
RH10 9PE
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Company Registration Number 6713311 England.
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