What types of DEXA scan are there?

A central DEXA scan commonly measures the hip and lower spine, areas used to assess bone density in many adults. A forearm or other peripheral scan measures a smaller area and may be useful when the usual sites cannot be assessed or when a service uses a portable device. Some examinations include vertebral imaging to look for changes in the shape of the spine. The scanner may also be used to assess body composition in selected settings, but that is a different clinical purpose from checking fracture risk. Your referral should specify the relevant examination.

Ask why a particular site has been selected. Metal implants, previous surgery, spinal curvature, body size, mobility and earlier images can affect the choice of scan. Wear clothing that allows easy positioning and tell the team about implants or recent contrast studies. Bring previous reports if available; repeating an examination on the same device or comparable sites can make follow-up easier to interpret. Do not assume that a peripheral result answers the same question as a hip and spine assessment.

Call before the appointment if you may be pregnant, recently had contrast imaging, or cannot position an arm, hip or spine comfortably. Seek medical care promptly after a fall with severe pain, deformity or inability to move normally; a DEXA scan is not an emergency fracture assessment. A new result should be reviewed with the clinician who knows your symptoms and risk factors.

Ask which sites will be measured, whether vertebral or peripheral imaging is needed, how the result will be compared with earlier scans, and whether another test is more suitable for your concern.