Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become less dense, causing them to fracture (break) more easily. A DXA scan is used to measure bone density.
Regardless of gender and age, anyone who displays one of more of the risk factors for osteoporosis should have a DXA scan. The earlier osteoporosis is identified, the more that can be done to prevent it from progressing.
Osteoporosis DXA scan appointments are available by calling 097 82434.
We recommend an osteoporosis scan for patients in the following categories:
Who is at risk
- A family history of osteoporosis
- A menopause before age 45 years
- Low levels of oestrogen in women which results in irregular periods or loss of periods
- A broken bone from a trip and fall from a standing position
- Steroid therapy – for a variety of conditions, e.g. rheumatoid arthritis or use of oral steroids for asthma
- Smoking
- Alcohol abuse
- Eating disorders, e.g. anorexia, bulimia or binge eating, over exercising with insufficient calories intake, irregular or loss of periods (not due to pregnancy)
- Certain medical conditions including Crohn’s Disease, Coeliac Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Haemochromatosis
- People who are wheelchair or bed bound for 6 weeks or long term
- Radiation, chemotherapy, arimidex, warfarin and heparin
- In Men: low levels of testosterone (Irish Osteoporosis Society)
For more information, visit the Irish Osteoporosis Society, the National Experts, regarding bone health on www.irishosteoporosis.ie
What is a DXA scan?
The DXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan delivers a direct measurement of bone density. It is the most accurate and reliable means of assessing the strength of your bones and your risk of breaking a bone.
A DXA scan is fast (it is only 10 to 15 minutes), accurate and painless and the dose of radiation used is extremely low.
What happens during the scan?
At the beginning of the scan, the radiographer will weigh you and measure your height. You will then lie on a padded examination table.
You will be asked to lie completely still while the DXA scanner moves over the body part that is being scanned – usually the lower spine and hips.
The procedure itself is painless and only takes 10 to 15 minutes.
After a DXA Scan
Your DXA scan results are given in the form of a T-Score. This is where your scan results are compared to peak bone mass, which the normal bone density is found in healthy people aged between 23 and 35.
A Z-Score is also calculated by comparing your results to the bone density of people of your own age. However, osteoporosis will be clinically diagnosed on your T-score.
The images and the scan report are then studied and the results will be sent to the doctor who referred you.
