Benefits and Risks – Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA, previously DEXA)

Benefits

• Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA, previously DEXA) is a simple, quick and noninvasive procedure.
• No anesthesia is required.
• The amount of radiation used is extremely small—less than one-tenth the dose of a standard chest x-ray, and less than a day's exposure to natural radiation.
• DXA testing is the most accurate method available for the diagnosis of osteoporosis and is also considered an accurate estimator of fracture risk.
• DXA equipment is widely available making bone densitometry testing convenient.
• No radiation remains in a patient's body after an x-ray examination.
• X-rays usually have no side effects in the typical diagnostic range for this exam.

Risks

• There is always a slight chance of cancer from excessive exposure to radiation. However, the benefit of an accurate diagnosis far outweighs the risk.
• Women should always inform their SMIL radiologist if there is any possibility that they could be pregnant.
• The effective radiation dose for this procedure varies.
• No complications are expected with DXA.