Bone Density Scan (DEXA)

DEXA scans are used to identify the makeup and strength of your bones, and to detect potential bone loss.

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Prepare For Your Visit

Tip: Do not take any calcium supplements 24 hours prior to your exam. You may prefer to wear clothes which do not contain zippers, buttons, or other metal. If you do this you will most likely not need to change into a gown for your exam.

Click to View General Instructions
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Exam Length

20 - 30 minutes
Appointment Required: Yes

Call (209) 491-5200 to schedule

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DEXA Scan Hours

Mon-Fri: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
Other times available by appointment only

Fact

1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men suffer from osteoporosis.

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis has been called the “Silent Killer,” because bone loss doesn’t typically have any symptoms, and it’s very hard to detect and diagnose in its early stages. This disease makes bones thin and brittle. A simple slip for someone with osteoporosis could have devastating consequences. Fractures most commonly occur in the hips, spine, and wrist. Among these, hip fractures are usually the most serious and may lead to permanent disability, repeat fractures, or even death.
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Why Choose Us?

  • State-of-the-art equipment
  • Appointments typically available within 3 days
  • Fastest reporting to your referring Physician
  • Accredited and sub-specialized Radiologists on site
  • Highly-trained Technologists
  • Comfortable, private, and professional exam environment
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What to Expect

DEXA scans are painless and rather quick form of X-Ray, which will give details of the inside of your bones.

  • Upon arrival, you will be asked to fill out any required paperwork.
  • One of our friendly Technologists will show you to your dressing room and give you time to change into a gown.
  • Lockers are provided in the dressing room to secure your personal items.
  • The Technologist will then escort you into our DEXA suite where you will be asked to lay on the scan table while the DEXA scanner will glide above you taking pictures.
  • After your exam is complete, our Radiologist will review the images and communicate the results to your referring Physician.
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Who Should have a Bone Density Scan?

  • ALL women above age 65
  • ALL MEN above age 70
  • ALL adults age 50+ who have had a fracture
  • Family history of Osteoporosis
  • If your diet has too much caffeine, sodium, or protein
  • Women in the menopausal transition who have low body weight, or have had a prior low-trauma fracture
  • Post-menopausal women who have discontinued estrogen
  • Any adult with rheumatoid arthritis, or taking medications associated with low bone mass and loss
  • Individuals with vertebral abnormalities
  • Individuals with primary hyperthyroidism

Discuss having a DEXA scan with your Physician at your next checkup