Test / Diagnostic Procedure: Private DEXA scan

A DEXA scan or bone density scan is an X-ray imaging test that assesses your bones’ density. 

DEXA stands for ‘dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry’. This type of X-ray uses considerably lower X-ray levels to measure bone density. It can show whether you’re at risk of osteoporosis or if you already have it. 

DEXA scans are painless, quick to perform, and more effective than regular X-rays at identifying low bone density and osteoporosis.

Doctors use a DEXA scan primarily to detect or diagnose osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a health condition that affects your bones, making them weaker and more prone to fractures. 

In a DEXA scan, the radiographer (the specialist carrying out the scan) will compare your bone density measurements to that of a young, healthy adult or someone of your age, gender and ethnicity. A DEXA scan can also look at your body composition, such as how much fat and muscle you have. 

We will use a fracture risk assessment alongside your DEXA scan to assess your possibility of having osteoporosis. 

A fracture risk assessment will look at things like: 

• Your age

• Gender

• Your medications

• Genetics

• Lifestyle choices, such as smoking and drinking alcohol

We can make an accurate diagnosis by considering all these risk factors and the results from your DEXA scan. 

What is the radiation risk of a DEXA scan?

A DEXA scan uses much lower levels of radiation than standard X-rays – less than two days’ worth of exposure to natural background radiation. 

Due to the low radiation, the radiographer can stay in the room with you, helping you feel more comfortable and relaxed.

You might need a DEXA scan for numerous reasons, but your doctor is most likely to recommend it. 

You may benefit from a DEXA scan if you: 

• Are middle-aged or older 

• Have gone through menopause

• Have an increased risk of osteoporosis

• Want to be proactive about your health as you age

An increased risk of osteoporosis is the primary reason a doctor may refer you for a DEXA scan. 

You can have an elevated risk of osteoporosis if you: 

• Have had a broken bone after a minor fall or injury

• Have been taking medicines called oral glucocorticoids for three months or more to treat inflammation, as they can also cause weakened bones

• Are a woman who has had an early menopause

• Had your ovaries removed before 45 and have not had hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

• Are postmenopausal and you smoke or drink heavily, have a family history of hip fractures, or a body mass index (BMI) under 21

At OneWelbeck, we only accept bookings for DEXA scans once your doctor has referred you. So, you’ll know if you need a DEXA scan because your doctor has told you. 

A DEXA scan can provide you with vital information about your bone health. By understanding your osteoporosis risk and whether you have it, you can make positive lifestyle changes to support your bone health and overall wellbeing as you age. 

Other benefits of a DEXA scan include: 

• Low levels of X-ray radiation

• Fast procedure

• Completely pain-free

• No anaesthetic required 

Currently, we only accept referrals from your GP when booking a DEXA scan – self-referral is unavailable.

If you’re concerned about your bone health or risk of osteoporosis, speak with your doctor. They can give you a DEXA scan referral if they believe you will benefit from one.

Your doctor will also review your DEXA scan results and you can discuss any further treatment or testing with them.

How much is a private DEXA scan?

Please contact our team to discuss our DEXA scan pricing. We’ll happily discuss how to book your appointment and pay for your scan.