DEXA — Bone Density & Body Composition Analysis
Our Hologic Horizon Wi DEXA scanner measures bone density for osteoporosis risk and provides detailed body composition analysis including visceral fat, lean mass, and regional fat distribution.
What Is a DEXA?
DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is the gold standard for measuring bone mineral density and assessing fracture risk. Our Hologic Horizon Wi system also provides comprehensive body composition analysis — showing you exactly where fat and muscle are distributed throughout your body, including visceral fat (the dangerous fat around your organs). It uses an extremely low dose of radiation — less than a single day of natural background exposure.
What Can DEXA Diagnose?
- Osteoporosis and osteopenia (low bone density)
- Fracture risk assessment
- Body fat percentage and distribution
- Visceral fat measurement (organ fat)
- Lean muscle mass tracking
- Regional body composition (arms, legs, trunk)
- Treatment monitoring for osteoporosis
- Body composition changes over time (fitness tracking)
How to Prepare for Your DEXA
- 1No special preparation needed
- 2Wear comfortable clothing without metal (zippers, buttons, underwire)
- 3Do not take calcium supplements for 24 hours before the exam
- 4Inform us if you had a CT scan or barium study recently (contrast may affect results)
- 5Arrive 10 minutes early with insurance card
- 6DEXA bone density may be self-referred for some patients — call to verify
What to Expect During Your DEXA
Positioning
You lie fully clothed on a padded table. The technologist positions you and the scanner arm above you.
The Scan
The scanner arm passes over your body, measuring bone density at the hip and spine (for bone density) or your entire body (for body composition). You feel nothing — no compression, no injection, no enclosed space.
Results
Your T-score (bone density compared to a healthy young adult) and body composition data are generated quickly. Your doctor receives a detailed report within 48 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Schedule Your DEXA?
Call us or book online. We'll get you scheduled quickly.