A Bone Mineral Densitometry (BMD) scan measures how much mineral content is stored within your bones, to assess bone health, to look for osteoporosis or osteopenia, and to help estimate your risk of fracture. It is performed on a DEXA scanner, and can be booked online.
What a bone density scan measures
- What it measures: bone mineral density, which is how much mineral content is stored within your bone.
- Why it is done: to assess bone health, to look for osteoporosis or osteopenia, and to help estimate your risk of fracture.
- Which part of your body is scanned: the lumbar spine (lower back) and hip. A forearm scan may also be performed where clinically indicated, based on the patient’s medical history or the results of the spine and hip assessment.
- Who can refer: a GP, or a specialist such as an endocrinologist or rheumatologist.
- Also called: bone densitometry, BMD, bone density test.
How a DEXA scan works
DEXA (Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) uses two X-ray beams of different energy levels to assess body composition or bone density. As bone, fat and lean tissue absorb these beams at different rates, the scanner is able to distinguish between them and measure each tissue type separately.
The procedure is quick and non-invasive. Patients lie on an open table, with no enclosed scanner and no injection required.
Bone density or body composition: which scan has your doctor asked for?
Bone density and body composition are 2 different scans performed on the same machine.
Your referring practitioner will either request a bone density scan (sometimes written as bone densitometry or BMD) or a body composition scan. The 2 scans are booked differently, take different amounts of time and are reported differently.
A body composition scan measures the percentage of fat and muscle tissue within the body – helping you understand strength and resilience as you age. Learn more here: body composition scan.
What happens during a bone density scan
A bone density scan is performed while the patient lies on an open, padded table. The patient is not enclosed at any stage of the procedure, and no injection is required.
During the scan, the scanning arm passes above the body without making contact. Patients are required to remain still for the duration of the scan, and may be asked to hold a specific position or rest their legs on a positioning support.
How long a bone density scan takes
A bone density scan usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. We suggest allowing 30 minutes at the clinic.
How to prepare
- If you take calcium supplements, withhold them for 24 hours before your scan.
- Wear thin clothing with no metal or dense components on it. We can supply an imaging gown if you would prefer.
- Remove jewellery before your scan, or preferably leave it at home.
- Bring any previous DEXA scans, if they were not performed at a Jones Radiology clinic.
Precautions
Patients who are pregnant, or who suspect they may be pregnant, should advise our staff prior to their appointment. Bone density scans are non-urgent examinations, and are not recommended during pregnancy.
Our X-ray dose information page explains how Jones Radiology handles imaging during pregnancy in full.
Certain imaging tests performed prior to a DEXA scan may affect the accuracy of the results, as injected or ingested contrast media can interfere with the measurement. Patients are asked to advise our staff at the time of booking if they have recently undergone any of the following procedures.
- A barium study. Allow 1 week before a DEXA scan.
- A contrast study, such as an X-ray, CT or MRI using dye. Allow 48 hours.
- A nuclear medicine injection. Allow 48 hours, although some nuclear medicine injections need 1 to 2 weeks.
Our scanners have a weight limit of 227kg.
Radiation and safety
A DEXA scan uses a very low dose of X-ray radiation. No injection is required, and no substance remains in the body following the procedure.
The maximum radiation dose received during a DEXA scan is equivalent to approximately one day of natural radiation exposure.
Where to have a bone density scan in South Australia
Bone density scans are performed at Alice Springs, Burnside, Gawler, Morphett Vale, Mount Barker, Port Augusta, Prospect, and 337 South Terrace in Adelaide.
For further information regarding addresses, opening hours and parking, find our clinic locations page.
Booking a bone density scan online
You can book a bone density scan online, in 3 steps.
- Choose your scan and your clinic.
- Pick a time that suits you.
- Upload your referral. A clear photo taken on your phone or a PDF both work.
If you have already booked and only need to send your paperwork, use Upload a Referral.
Referrals and fees
All imaging is performed on referral from a general practitioner, specialist or other eligible health practitioner. A valid referral is required for a bone density scan.
Fees depend on the examination, your referral and your eligibility for a Medicare rebate. Find more information on billing and Medicare rebates on our billing page.
Your results
All images are reviewed and reported by a Jones radiologist. The report is then forwarded to the referring practitioner, who will discuss the findings with the patient.
You can also view your own reports through the Patient portal.
Bone Density FAQs
Is a DEXA scan the same as a bone density scan?
A bone density scan is a DEXA scan, but not every DEXA scan is a bone density scan. DEXA is the technology. Bone density and body composition are the 2 studies performed with it.
Does a bone density scan hurt?
No. Nothing enters the body and nothing presses on you. You lie still on an open table while the scanning arm passes above you.
Do I need a referral for a bone density scan?
Yes – a bone density scan needs a referral.
How often should I have a bone density scan?
That is a decision for your referring practitioner, and it depends on your results and your circumstances.
Can I have a bone density scan and a body composition scan at the same visit?
Yes – both scans need to be clearly requested, either on 1 referral or on 2 separate referrals.
What is the difference between a bone density scan and a nuclear medicine bone scan?
A DEXA scan measures how dense your bones are. A nuclear medicine bone scan looks for areas of abnormal activity in bone, and is a different examination to answer a different medical question.
Can I have a bone density scan if I have had a hip or knee replacement?
Joint replacements, spinal hardware after surgery, or a recent fracture can affect the result. For a bone density scan we simply scan other available sites.
Are you ready to make your Bone Density Scan appointment?
Our online booking platform allows you to quickly and easily make an appointment online.
