DXA Bone Density at ZP
Zwanger-Pesiri provides the latest in DXA (Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry), also known as DEXA, bone density technology at all of our facilities and is dedicated to diagnosing osteoporosis in its earliest stages. This enables you to avoid unnecessary bone loss and fractures.
Utilizing the most advanced equipment, we are able to deliver excellent imaging, precision and accuracy in bone health and tissue analysis. For patients over 50 years old, we also perform a
Lateral Vertebral Assessment which allows us to identify spine fractures with one rapid, low dose scan.
What is a DXA Bone Density scan?
A DXA scan uses very low dose x-rays and is a non-invasive, painless procedure that measures your bone density. It is the most accurate and most commonly used method for measuring bone loss. A DXA scan is the best way for doctors to diagnose conditions like osteoporosis or osteopina, as well as assess a patient’s risk of suffering a bone fracture.
DXA bone density is primarily recommended if you have had x-ray evidence of vertebral fracture, family history of osteporosis or hip fracture, or experienced a fracture after only mild trauma. If you have hyperthyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, type 1 diabetes, use medications that are known to cause bone loss or are a post-menopausal woman not taking estrogen, a DXA scan should be performed.
How does DXA Bone Density work?
A DXA scan uses low energy x-rays. Two kinds of x-ray beams with differing energy levels are directed at the bone that is being scanned. The images produced allow the radiologist to determine your bone mineral density. The more dense the bone is, the fewer x-rays get through to a special detector. This information is sent to a computer which gives a score of the average density of the bone.
A low score indicates that the bone is more prone to fracture and some material of the bone has been lost.
How do I prepare for a DXA scan?
When scheduling your appointment (online or by phone), provide us with your email address and we will send you personalized forms with your information already filled in. You will only have to
update or add any missing information. If your email address is not provided, you can still save time by downloading the DXA forms and completing them prior to arriving at the office.
Do not take calcium, vitamin D or multi-vitamin supplements for at least 24 hours before your scan. If you are taking medications for osteoporosis or osteopina, check with your doctor to confirm whether you should skip your dose on the day of your scan.
You must remove all jewelry and any other metallic objects such as hearing aids, jeans with metal zippers, body piercings and removable dental work. Wearing a sweatsuit with no metal may prevent you from having to change into a gown.
Bring with you to the appointment:
- Prescription from your doctor.
- Current insurance card.
- Authorization number from your insurance carrier.
- Any forms you completed at home.
- Credit card or cash for your insurance co-pay.
- Any relevant studies that you have from another facility. We like to compare the new DXA bone density study with any previous studies to assist in the diagnostic process.
- Picture identification.
Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.
What happens during a DXA scan?
All metal must be removed before your scan including jewelry, belt buckles and any clothing with metal zippers or buttons. Metal interferes with the quality and accuracy of the images captured during the DXA scan. If your clothing contains any metal, you will need to change into a gown. The technologist will confirm that you are free of all metal and review your medical history with you.
You will be asked to lie on a special x-ray table. An x-ray detector will slowly move over your body and scan your spine, hips and wrists without touching you. These are the bones that are more likely to fracture due to osteoporosis. You should try to remain as still as possible to ensure the best results.
The scan takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
What will I do when I arrive?
Present your prescription, insurance card and completed forms at the front desk. If any additional forms are required, they will be given to you at this time.
Be sure to inform the receptionist and technologist if you:
- Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
- Have any metal in your body.
- Are taking any vitamins or medications.
- Have any relevant studies from another facility. We like to compare the new DXA bone density study with any previous studies to assist in the diagnostic process.
When can I expect the results?
One of our board certified radiologists interprets your DXA images, compares them to any previous studies and dictates a report which is transcribed, proofread and signed.
The report is then faxed and mailed to your referring doctor within one or two days.
Your doctor will read the report and review the findings with you.
All of your signed reports and images are available to your referring doctor on our physician’s web portal.
Lateral Vertebral Assessment
Lateral Vertebral Assessment (LVA), also known as Vertebral Fracture Assessment (VFA), is a quick, low-dose examination of the spine taken in combination with a DXA bone density scan. A single image of the upper dorsal and lower lumbar spine can be obtained in seconds. With LVA, physicians can see existing vertebral (spine) fractures, which may indicate the need for additional testing, even if your DXA bone density results are in the "normal" range.
Not all patients need LVA. However, when clinically indicated, LVA can be beneficial in assessing bone health. It may be recommended for older patients, especially if they have lost more than an inch of height, have unexplained back pain or if your DXA scan gives borderline results.
