Bone Density Scan (DEXA)
Did You Know…
…A bone density scan takes no more than 10 minutes?
…A bone density scan is completely painless?
…The procedure is performed by a radiology technician, specially trained for this type of test?
A bone density scan (DEXA) is used to measure the calcium levels in your bones to assess the strength of your skeletal system.
- Note: For this procedure, you will need a referral from your general practitioner (GP).
When Is a Bone Density Scan Recommended?
- When there is a suspicion of age-related bone loss or increased risk of fractures.
- If you’ve recently had a stomach or bowel X-ray using contrast material, the scan cannot be performed for several days.
The procedure is not advised during pregnancy, as radiation exposure can be harmful to the unborn baby. If you are pregnant or think you might be, please consult your physician before scheduling the test.
What Is a Bone Density Scan?
A bone density scan uses low doses of X-ray radiation. The device measures how much of the X-ray is absorbed by your body. A computer then calculates the average bone density and compares it to normal values for your age and gender.
This test is often used to determine whether you have osteoporosis, a common bone condition, especially during and after menopause.
Want to know more? Click here.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this test.
What to Bring With You
- Wear comfortable clothing
- Bring your health insurance card or, if not applicable, your ID (passport or ID card).
- Bring your referral letter from your GP.
- Avoid wearing clothes with metal parts, such as zippers or buttons, and remove any piercings (especially navel piercings).
Pregnancy
The scan should not be performed during pregnancy due to the risk of radiation exposure to the unborn baby. If you are or could be pregnant, please consult with your doctor.
On the Day of the Test
Proper preparation ensures that the examination runs smoothly and efficiently.
01. At the Radiology Department
- Arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled appointment and check in at the front desk.
- The receptionist will direct you to the waiting area. Please always check in first—do not go directly to the waiting room without notifying the staff.
- There may be multiple people waiting for different types of tests, so others who arrive after you may be called in first.
02. The Procedure
- A Radiology Technologist will escort you to a changing room.
- You will need to remove clothing over the area being examined.
- Wait in the changing room until you are called. Remove any jewelry or piercings.
- The technician will guide you on how to position yourself on the examination table.
- The scanner arm will move over the area being examined (usually the lower back and hip).
- Each scan takes about two minutes.
- It is important to remain still during the scan.
The test is completely painless.
Once all the images are successfully captured, the technician will escort you back to the changing room.
The entire process takes no more than 10 minutes.
03. Discharge Information
The results will be sent to your GP or referring physician. They will contact you to discuss the results.
Results
The results of the test will be sent to your GP or referring physician within 24 hours. Your doctor will contact you to discuss the results.
Risks and Complications
X-ray radiation passes through the body in varying degrees but does not make you radioactive. To minimize exposure, the radiology department uses the lowest possible dose of radiation for each scan. There are virtually no risks associated with this procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
CliniX offers short waiting times—you can schedule an appointment within 5 days.
The results will be sent to your GP or specialist.
Always bring your health insurance card and a valid ID (passport or ID card). Don’t forget your referral letter. Wear comfortable clothes.
CliniX is located in the Radiology Department at Zaans Medical Center.
No, fasting is not required.
The scan takes a maximum of 10 minutes.
Costs and Insurance Coverage
If the test is requested by your GP, it is generally covered by your health insurance provider. Please check your insurance policy for specific coverage details.
Waiting Time
We offer short waiting times—you can schedule an appointment within five working days.
Schedule Your Appointment
To make an appointment, contact us at:
Phone: (075) 650 29 75
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Important: You will need a referral from your GP for this test.