Bone density scan is a test to evaluate the bone density (bone strength) using low dose X-Rays. It is also called DEXA Scan (DXA -  dual energy x-ray absorptiometry). Bone Density scan is used to assess or diagnose risk of Osteoporosis, a condition where the bones become weak and are likely to break easily. The higher the bone mineral content, the denser bones are. And the denser the bones, the stronger they generally are and the less likely they are to break.

Why Bone Density Scan is done

It is recommended for people who are at high risk for osteoporosis due to old age, previous history of bone breakage, usually post menopausal women are at higher risk. However, osteoporosis can affect anyone at any age.  Doctors use bone density scan to:

1. Identify decreases in bone density before you break a bone

2. Determine risk of broken bones (fractures)

3. Confirm a diagnosis of osteoporosis

4. Monitor osteoporosis treatment

Other cases where Bone density scan may be deployed are: In case of lost height, fractured bones, organ transplants, drop in hormonal levels etc. 

How is Bone Density Scan done

Bone density scans is an easy and painless procedure. It takes approx 15-20 minutes and no special preparation is needed. The patient has to usually lay back flat on the X-Ray table. The scanning arm is passed over the centre of the skeleton, and through the body for the specific part of the body being scanned. Bone density varies in different parts of the body, so multiple parts may be scanned. 

Note: Inform the Doctor if recently any contrast material was injected for a CT scan or nuclear medicine test conducted. Contrast materials might interfere with the bone density test