Bone Densitometry (DXA Scan)

Bone densitometry measures the mineral density of your bones. If your bones aren't dense enough, you could be at risk for osteoporosis, which involves the loss of bone mass and poor bone quality, and causes bones to become brittle, fragile, and prone to fracture. Osteoporosis is more common in women, but men can also suffer from it.

The bone densitometry exam is conducted at Mon Health with the Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DXA) machine, which can detect osteoporosis even before you have any symptoms. The DXA scan allows doctors to see how far from optimal bone density the scan is, and decide how to treat any bone mineral loss.

If you have osteoporosis, you should a have bone density test at least every year. If you are considered high risk, you should also be tested every year.  

Women should check in for your scan at the hospital’s Women’s Imaging Center, on the right side of the hospital’s main lobby.

Men should check in for your scan at the Radiology Services registration desk, down the hallway to the right of the hospital’s main lobby. 

A DXA scan, like all X-rays, requires a doctor's order. To schedule a scan, call (304) 285-2250.

• Reminder – If you have questions or concerns before, during, or after your procedure, call us at (304) 285-2250, or ask the nurse or technologist. We need your input, questions, and concerns to provide you with the best care, so please speak up!