Bone densitometry (DXA) scans
Bone densitometry (DXA) scan measures the level of calcium in your bones. The two main areas of the body which are scanned are the spine and the hip.
DXA scans are undertaken to determine whether you have osteoporosis (fragile bones) or are at risk of developing this. There is no preparation required, but it is important that there is no metal over the spine or hip areas.
The scans take approximately 10 minutes. The scan appears on the screen as an outline, which contains only basic detail. This needs to be carefully examined so the results will not be available straight away.