DEXA stands for Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry. The scanner uses two low-energy X-ray beams at different energy levels directed at specific bone sites, typically the hip, lumbar spine, and wrist.

Because bone and soft tissue absorb the two energy levels differently, the machine can precisely calculate how much bone mineral is present in a given area. The result is expressed as bone mineral density (BMD) in grams per square centimetre (g/cm²), which is then compared to population norms to generate your T-score and Z-score.

Not at all. DEXA is one of the most comfortable imaging procedures available. There are no injections, no tunnels, no loud noises, and no compression. You simply lie on a padded open table and the scanner arm moves gently above you.

The procedure is well tolerated even by elderly patients or those with joint pain, as you are not required to adopt any unusual positions. If you have difficulty lying flat or have limited mobility, please let our staff know when booking so we can ensure appropriate assistance is available.

DEXA uses an exceptionally small amount of radiation, one of the lowest of any medical X-ray examination. To put it in perspective:

• A full DEXA scan delivers approximately 1-10 microsieverts (µSv) of radiation
• A standard chest X-ray delivers roughly 100 µSv - about 10-100 times more
• Natural background radiation from the environment averages around 8 µSv per day in Australia

In practical terms, the radiation from a DEXA scan is comparable to a few hours of background radiation you would receive simply by going about your day. The benefit of early osteoporosis detection vastly outweighs this negligible theoretical risk.

Yes, DEXA scanning is bulk billed for eligible Medicare card holders with a valid referral at our Glenroy clinic. This means there is no out-of-pocket cost for patients who meet Medicare's clinical criteria.

Please bring your Medicare card and referral form to your appointment. If you are unsure whether you are eligible for a Medicare-rebated DEXA scan, ask your GP and they will be able to advise you before issuing the referral.

Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones lose density and strength, making them fragile and prone to fracture and even from minor falls or everyday activities. It is often called a "silent disease" because bone loss occurs gradually with no symptoms until a fracture happens.

Osteoporosis is extremely common, particularly in postmenopausal women and older men. In Australia, approximately one in three women and one in five men over 50 will suffer an osteoporotic fracture at some point in their lifetime. Hip fractures in particular carry significant health consequences, including loss of independence and increased mortality.

Early detection through DEXA scanning allows treatment to begin before fractures occur, preventing the most serious outcomes of the disease.

The frequency of repeat DEXA scanning depends on your individual situation and what your doctor finds:

• Normal bone density: Repeat scanning may not be needed for 3-5 years, unless new risk factors emerge
• Osteopenia: Typically repeated every 1-2 years to monitor for progression
• Osteoporosis on treatment: Usually repeated after 12-24 months of treatment to assess response

Medicare has specific guidelines on how frequently DEXA scans can be bulk billed. Your GP or specialist will advise on the appropriate interval for your situation and ensure the referral meets Medicare requirements.

Yes, you can eat, drink, and take most medications as normal before your DEXA scan. No fasting is required.

The one important exception is calcium supplements (including calcium-containing antacids like Tums, Gaviscon, or Rennie). These should be avoided for at least 24 hours before your scan, as residual calcium in the digestive system can artificially inflate spinal bone density readings. Dietary calcium from food is not a concern.

Your scan images are reviewed by our specialist radiologist, who prepares a detailed written report including T-scores and Z-scores at each measured site, a WHO classification, and clinical commentary. Reports are sent electronically to your referring doctor typically within 24-48 hours of your appointment.

Please follow up with your GP or specialist to discuss your results. Matrix does not provide results directly to patients.