DEXA Bone Mineral Density Scan

A comprehensive DEXA bone mineral density scan assessing bone strength and fracture risk. The non-invasive scan takes approximately 10–15 minutes and is combined with specialist consultation and blood work for a full osteoporosis assessment.

DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is the gold-standard imaging technique for measuring bone mineral density (BMD) and assessing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. At ACME Orthopaedics, the DEXA scan is delivered as part of a complete osteoporosis screening package supervised by orthopaedic specialists, ensuring results are interpreted within a full clinical context rather than in isolation. The scan itself is quick, painless, and non-invasive, typically taking just 10 to 15 minutes. It uses a very small dose of ionising radiation — far lower than a standard chest X-ray — to measure bone density at key sites such as the lumbar spine and hips, which are the most commonly affected areas in osteoporosis. The resulting T-score indicates whether bone density is within the normal range, showing signs of low bone mass (osteopenia), or has progressed to osteoporosis. What sets ACME Orthopaedics apart is the package structure surrounding the DEXA scan. Each patient receives a pre-screening consultation to discuss their personal medical history, risk factors, family history, and lifestyle. This is followed by the scan and a set of blood tests — including Full Blood Count (FBC), Renal Function Test (RFT), calcium levels, and Vitamin D screening — to identify underlying metabolic causes or nutritional deficiencies that may contribute to bone loss. After the assessment, a specialist review session walks patients through their results in detail and outlines a personalised bone health management plan. This may include dietary recommendations, calcium and Vitamin D supplementation guidance, weight-bearing exercise advice, or further orthopaedic intervention if required. The screening is particularly recommended for women aged 65 and above, men aged 70 and above, post-menopausal women of any age, individuals with a family history of osteoporosis or fragility fractures, long-term steroid users, and those with low calcium or Vitamin D intake. Early detection through DEXA scanning is the most effective way to prevent fractures, reduce disability, and maintain quality of life as bone density naturally declines with age.