|Tests and Services
Dexa-Scan (Bone Density Scan)
A Dexa – Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry — scan is the “gold standard” to measure bone strength (density). Children’s team performs more than 300 Dexa procedures annually.
Dexa scanning is a non-surgical method of measuring bone strength and determining the likelihood that bones could break with simple trauma. Dexa scanning uses very low doses of x-rays to quickly scan bones. Usually the spine, hip, and wrist are scanned. A computer converts the information obtained from the x-rays into numbers that measure bone density (strength). A Dexa scan is relatively simple and does not include any needles, shots, or medicine.
This test is only performed at Children's National Medical Center-Main Hospital location. Dexa-Scan (Bone Density Scan) - Departments & Programs - Children's National Medical Center