DEXA Scan (Bone Density)

DEXA (Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is a high-quality diagnostic tool that measures bone mineral density, commonly used to diagnose osteoporosis — a condition where bones become weak and brittle — and to assess fracture risk. It's considered the current gold standard for measuring bone mineral density (BMD).

There are no dietary requirements, though be sure to dress comfortably with clothing that does not have any metal zips or buttons as metal will interfere with the X-ray. If you wear a bra, this will have to be removed. A gown may be provided if necessary. Let us know if you have specific requirements, for example, wheelchair access or if you have a visual impairment or suffer from hearing loss.

When you attend your appointment, speak with the reception team who will check your appointment details and guide you to the waiting area. You may have to complete a pre-examination form depending on your particular circumstances. A member of staff will escort you to the changing room. Your height and weight will be checked, and you will be instructed on changing. The radiographer will take you through to the scanner and confirm your details. The radiographer will position you and start the scan.

You can eat and drink normally after the scan. You can drive home afterward and return to activities. We will send your results to your referring physician, who will discuss them with you at your follow-up appointment. If this has not already been scheduled, you will need to contact them to arrange for this.

As with all X-ray examinations, there is a small amount of risk involved with ionizing radiation, equivalent to approximately two days of radiation from our natural environment or radiation expected from a short flight. Your referring doctor has decided that the risks are negligible and that the benefits of the examination are much greater. If you think you could be pregnant, please inform a member of staff.

Yes, but they may only enter the examination room in special circumstances (for health & safety reasons). There should be no discomfort during the scan. If you find positioning or the procedure uncomfortable, please tell a member of staff. We are registered with the following insurance providers: Bupa, WPA, Healix Health, Alliance Health Group and Vitality. Please check your policy covers the treatment and get an authorisation number from your insurer before your appointment.

A DEXA scan at Friends Medical costs £225

Yes, a GP referral is required for a DEXA scan. This can be from your own GP or, alternatively, you can request a referral from our own in-house private GP via a separate appointment.

No, a DEXA scan is a simple, non-invasive procedure. You simply lie on a scanning bed while the scanner arm passes over you; there's no needle and nothing to feel during the scan itself

The scan uses a small amount of ionising radiation to create images of your lower spine and hips, as these are the areas most commonly used to measure bone loss

DEXA scans are often recommended for postmenopausal women, adults over 50 with risk factors for osteoporosis (such as a family history, long-term steroid use, or previous fractures), or anyone advised by their GP to monitor bone density. Before your scan, you'll be asked questions to help assess any medical conditions or medications that could affect your fracture risk.

DEXA scans are available at Friends Medical Service's clinic in Lurgan, subject to a GP referral.