Bone Densitometry (DEXA)

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry — DEXA or DXA — measures the mineral density of your bones, typically in the lumbar spine and hips. It’s the standard test for detecting osteopenia and osteoporosis, conditions that quietly weaken bones long before a fracture brings them to attention.

Why bone density matters

Below-normal bone density indicates loss of calcium from osteoporosis or other metabolic conditions. Although most common in women after menopause, osteoporosis also affects men and younger women. Because bone loss has no symptoms, DEXA is often the only way to know your bone strength is declining — while there’s still time to act.

Detection and monitoring

RMI’s state-of-the-art DEXA detects low bone mass and monitors how well osteoporosis treatments are working over time. Scans are quick, painless and require no preparation at all.

From diagnosis to treatment

Bone density is only half the story. RMI’s radiologists can also treat the consequence of fragile bones: for patients with painful osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures, our interventional team performs vertebral augmentation (kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty) — a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that can relieve pain and restore mobility. Learn about kyphoplasty »