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Bone Densitometry (DEXA)

Call 844.467.6824

Next Steps

Danville Campus

For more information or to make an appointment, contact our Danville campus today.

Call 434-799-3883

Martinsville Campus

For more information or to make an appointment, contact our Martinsville campus today.

Call 276.666.7561

Frequently Asked Questions

Review FAQs

What to Expect During a DEXA Scan

The exam requires little to no special preparation. It’s important to tell your doctor and the technologist if there is a possibility you are pregnant or if you recently had a barium exam or received an injection of contrast material for a CT or radioisotope for a Nuclear Medicine scan. You should not take calcium supplements for at least 24 hours before your exam.

You should wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid garments that have zippers, belts or buttons made of metal.

For a conventional DEXA exam, the bone density of one of your hips and lower spine are measured, while lying on a padded table. An X-ray generator is located below you and an imaging device, or detector, is positioned above. The detector is slowly passed over the area, generating images on a computer monitor. You will be asked to hold very still and may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds while the X-ray is taken.

A board certified radiologist will analyze your DEXA images and send a signed report to your primary care or referring physician.

DEXA Scan Hours

Bone density (DEXA) scans are performed Monday through Friday, by appointment only. You must have a physician's order.

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