Osteoporosis develops silently: bone mass declines for years without symptoms, and the first sign is often a low-energy fracture of the hip, spine or wrist. Bone densitometry measures bone mineral density (BMD) and detects the disease at a stage when fractures can still be prevented.
How a DEXA examination works
Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) passes two X-ray beams of different energies through bone. Soft tissue and bone absorb them differently, which lets the system calculate mineral density with high precision at a radiation dose comparable to a few hours of natural background. The result is expressed as T- and Z-scores that compare the patient with a healthy young reference and an age-matched peer group.
Who should be examined
- •Women over 65 and men over 70 — routinely
- •Postmenopausal women with risk factors (low weight, smoking, early menopause)
- •Patients on long-term glucocorticoids, anticonvulsants or hormone therapy
- •Anyone with a fracture after minimal trauma
- •Patients with endocrine disorders affecting bone metabolism
Axial DEXA of the lumbar spine and proximal femur is the diagnostic reference; peripheral DEXA and ultrasound densitometry are effective screening tools that bring the examination outside the radiology department. Repeat measurement every 1–2 years tracks therapy response.
Frequently asked questions
Have questions about the equipment?
Our specialists will advise on models, configurations and documentation — free of charge.