You may be asked to undress and put on a gown. You’ll lie on a padded table with an x-ray generator below and a detector (imaging device) above. It is important that you remain as still as possible during the procedure to ensure a clear and useful image. When evaluating bone loss in the spine and hip where most osteoporosis-related fractures happen: Spine: During an examination of the spine, your legs will be supported on a padded box to flatten your pelvis and lower (lumbar) spine. Hip: The technologist will place your foot in a brace that rotates the hip inward. The detector is scanned over the area, generating images on a computer monitor.
DEXA bone densitometry is a simple, painless and non-invasive procedure. Once on the examination table, you may be asked to remain still and to hold an awkward position for a short period of time while the machine takes measurements.
The results of a DEXA bone density exam are interpreted by a radiologist and forwarded to your doctor. Your test results will be in the form of two scores:
T score – This number shows the amount of bone you have compared to a young adult of the same gender with peak bone mass. A score above -1 is considered normal. A score between -1 and -2.5 is classified as osteopenia, the first stage of bone loss. A score below -2.5 is defined as osteoporosis. It is used to estimate your risk of developing a fracture.
Z score – This number reflects the amount of bone you have compared to other people in your age group and of the same size and gender. If it is unusually high or low, it may indicate a need for further medical tests.
