What is DXA?
DXA stands for "Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry", which is the use of X-rays to determine bone mass. It is considered the gold standard for bone density testing. It is used to diagnose osteoporosis.
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a decrease in bone strength, which places a person at high risk to break or fracture a bone.
Bone density testing is strongly recommended for:
- All post-menopausal women under age 65 who have additional osteoporosis risk factors
- All women age 65 and older regardless of additional risk factors
- Post-menopausal women who sustain a fracture
- Women who have been on hormone replacement therapy ( HRT/ERT) for prolonged periods
- Men with clinical conditions associated with bone loss
- Those with X-ray evidence of vertebral fracture
- Those with very low body weight / anorexia
Specialist Treatment in Euromedic
Professor Moira O'Brien, the founder of the Irish Osteoporosis Society, is the specialist in charge of DXA investigations and treatment in Euromedic Dundrum.
What happens during the scan ?
You are required to lie on a table, supported by a cushion while the scan takes place.
How long will the scan take ?
The scan will take approximately 20-30 minutes.
When do I get the results?
The radiologist (specialist imaging consultant) will write a report to your referring doctor detailing the findings from the scan. The report will be sent to your referring doctor usually within 48 hours.
