What is a DEXA scan (bone density test)? DEXA stands for “dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry,” and is considered the most accurate test for bone density.
A bone density test determines if you have osteoporosis — a disease that causes bones to become more fragile and more likely to break.
In the past, osteoporosis could be detected only after you broke a bone. By that time, however, your bones could be quite weak. A bone density test makes it possible to know your risk of breaking bones before the fact.
A bone density test uses X-rays to measure how many grams of calcium and other bone minerals are packed into a segment of bone. The bones that are most commonly tested are located in the spine, hip and forearm.
What is DEXA body composition?
Traditionally, body composition assessment involved determining %body fat and dividing the body into two compartments: fat mass and fat free mass. The latest technique, DEXA, measures %body fat and divides the body into three compartments: fat mass, bone mass, and lean mass. In addition, the DEXA method determines %fat, fat mass, bone mass and lean mass seperately for the arms, trunk, and legs.
Our primary method for assessing body composition is DEXA (dual energy x-ray absorptiometry). We consider DEXA to be the best body composition technique available because it is easy and comfortable for the patient. You lie down on an open “table” for aproximately 8 minutes while your body is scanned, it’s extremely accurate, and it measures regional (arms, trunk, and legs) as well as total body %fat, fat mass, bone mass, and lean mass.