PRP's DEXA (BMD) Service Information

DEXA Bone Mineral Density is the estimation of the bone density in your spine and hip – sometimes other bones such as the wrist.

Please advise us beforehand

Please inform booking staff or the radiographer of any recent imaging appointments involving barium, the injection of contrast material for a CT scan or a radioisotope injection.

If you are, or think you may be, pregnant.

Preparation

No preparation

What happens during the procedure

A Bone Mineral Densitometry examination is a comfortable, easy test that does not require an injection. You change into a gown. You will be asked to lie on your back in two different positions to allow measurement of the lower spine and one of the hips. The technique used in the test uses a very small amount of radiation, so please inform staff if there is any possibility of pregnancy. A radiographer will remain in the room for the entire examination.

How long does it take?

Approx 15-30 minutes.

After your examination

There are no restrictions after having this procedure.

Your images and report

After your examination, the most pertinent images from your study will be available on the myPRP patient portal. A report, along with the images will be sent directly to your referring doctor. PRP will store digital copies of all studies on our secure database for comparison with any future examinations.

Please bring any previous X-rays with you.

It is important that you return to your doctor with your examination results. Whether they are normal or abnormal, your doctor needs to know promptly so that a management plan can be formulated.