What is a DEXA body composition scan?
A dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) body composition scan uses advanced scanning technology to accurately measure the distribution of lean muscle, fat, and bone mass. It is fast and non-invasive, and can provide this information for the whole body, as well as for separate body parts. Weighing yourself provides information on your weight, but offers no insight into your body composition. In contrast, DEXA body composition scan accurately assesses body composition and enables you to track changes in body fat and muscle mass.
Body composition scanning using DEXA is proven to be more significantly more accurate than other technologies, including bioelectrical impedance and skinfold thickness measurements.
DEXA body composition scans are useful for people who want highly accurate body composition information to assist with physical performance, metabolic health and obesity management.
Results from a DEXA body composition scan can be used to develop a personalised and targeted program with your healthcare team. Sequential measurements can also be used to modify management, optimise body composition to achieve your metabolic and health goals.
Your radiographer will ask you to lie on the scanning bed and will position you, before the machine scans your body. A DEXA body composition scan works by passing very low energy x-ray beams through your body. These beams lose intensity relative to the densities of your body’s different tissues. From this information, the amount of lean muscle, fat and bone can be calculated for any given region of the body.
For a full DEXA body composition scan, you will lie still on the scanning bed for around 10 minutes.
A DEXA body composition scan does not require any specific preparation. Please wear loose clothing to your appointment, preferably with no metal.
In some instances, you may be given a gown to wear, as some materials and embellishments may affect the results of your scan. You may also be asked to remove objects like watches or jewellery for your scan, so consider leaving any valuables at home.
If you have any previous results, please bring them along to your appointment so they can be compared against your current results.
You will also be asked for your height, weight, and medical history before your scan.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment with your Medicare card and/or concession card, your referral, and any relevant previous scans. If you have a child aged 6 or under, they must be supervised by an adult other than the patient.
The radiation dose is very low. Health experts feel the risk to your health from this is very small and the benefits of the diagnostic information obtained usually outweigh any potential risks. No radiation remains in your body after the x-ray.
If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, please let your doctor and our staff know, as x-rays can potentially harm an unborn baby.
A DEXA body composition scan does not require any specific after care. You may resume normal activities after your scan, unless advised otherwise by your healthcare practitioner.
Please contact your preferred clinic for all quotes and enquiries. Our friendly customer service team can advise you of any costs involved with your scan, including any out-of-pocket costs.
We recommend arranging alternative childcare for the time of your scan, or have another adult accompany you to the appointment to care for your child.
Children are not allowed in the examination room, and there is no supervision available in the waiting area.
Our staff need to maintain full focus during your examination to ensure the best possible care.
