BONE DENSITOMETRY USING DEXA SCAN



WHAT IS A DEXA SCAN?

A DEXA Scan (also called a bone density scan or an osteoporosis scan) is a medical procedure used to estimate the amount of bone mineral content in certain areas of your body. Our state-of-the-art machine gives a much clearer image and better scoring method which improves the ability to diagnose osteopenia and osteoporosis.

WHY SHOULD I HAVE A DEXA SCAN?

This is a very easy and simple test that will help determine if you are at risk of developing, or have developed, osteoporosis. This test requires an order from your doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant.

ORDERS, SCHEDULING, AND INSURANCE - WHAT DO I DO BEFORE THE EXAM?

• An order is required for all Bone Densitometry exams
• You can call us directly to schedule your exam, or your Providers office may and schedule the exam for you
• Call your insurance prior to your exam to determine your age restrictions, frequency limitations, and other coverage information.
• Call your insurance prior to your exam to determine any prior authorization or notification requirements
• You can find more information on billing here: BILLING

Exam Preparation - What do I do before the exam?

• Read over our “Preparing for Your Imaging Exam“ page
• Wear warm and comfortable clothes with no metal, for example: no zippers, buttons, or grommets.
• Avoid wearing jewelry or other metal accessories as they will need to be removed prior to your exam.
• There are no eating/drinking restrictions. But you must avoid taking calcium supplements, Tums, and Rolaids 24 hours before your imaging exam.
• Ask your Provider about any medications you are taking, and bring a copy your current medications list with you to your imaging exam.

If you have any questions, please call our office at 309-743-0445.

HOW LONG WILL THE EXAM TAKE?

The test takes about 15 minutes to complete.

WHAT WILL THE EXAM BE LIKE?

You may be asked to change into a gown and remove any jewelry. You will then be escorted to the exam room and asked to lie very still on the exam table. The scanner will pass over you (probably your lower back and hips) and the x-ray beams will transfer the information to the computer.

WHAT HAPPENS WITH MY TEST RESULTS?

One of our specially trained Radiologists will study the images of your test and send a final written report to your ordering provider (doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant) within 24-48 hours, unless prior imaging is needed for your exam, in which case it may take longer.

Your ordering provider can then discuss the results with you in detail. If you want to discuss your results you will need to contact your ordering provider. Every Provider’s office has different procedures and turnaround time for discussing results of exams. Our staff is not able to discuss the specifics of the results with you or give you a diagnosis.

WHAT IF I HAVE FURTHER QUESTIONS?

If you have any further questions or concerns about this procedure, please contact our office at 309-743-0445 or call your doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant.