A Dexa scan or bone density test is procedure used to measure the density of bones – densitometry. Your bone density is an important determinant in the health of your bones and this kind of testing is routinely used in the diagnosis of conditions that cause bone deterioration, as is the case in osteoporosis. This is probably the most important and prominent use of the dexa scan, as it helps detect the presence or risk of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis causes the bones to become brittle and fragile, making them very susceptible to breakage and fractures.
There really are no specific dexa scan guidelines as such because these tests are relatively easy, swift and painless. There is no preparation required at all and some of the simpler versions of the test can in fact even be conducted at many local pharmacies and drug stores. It is important however that you disclose to your doctor any recent oral contrast or nuclear medicine tests that you may have had, prior to the dexa scan, if being conducted at a hospital or medical center. The reason behind this is because, tests of this nature require introduction of radioactive tracers to your system with an injection and this could interfere with and give faulty results in the bone density test.
Another thing you need to keep in mind when going in for a dexa scan is that you need to stop taking any calcium supplements that you may be on for at least 48 hours prior to testing. You can discuss this with your doctor. Likewise any medications that you may be on for Osteopenia or Osteoporosis should not be taken on the day of testing. There are no dietary modifications or limitations however. You would be well advised to wear loose clothing, and if possible something without any metal zippers or buttons, as you would need to disrobe if there is any metal. Any metal jewelry would also need to be removed prior to testing. Make it a point to inform the technician of any hip or back injuries that you may have had, and also if you are left handed, as in most cases technicians perform measurements on the non dominant hand.
Dexa scans are a huge improvement in medical science as before they were employed it was not very easy to predict or detect osteoporosis until it already caused some injury like a fracture. The dexa scan enables health care providers to take preventive action and forewarn patients.