Advanced DEXA Bone Scan in Dubai

The DEXA scan itself takes only 10-15 minutes, during which you lie comfortably on a padded table while the scanner arm passes slowly above you. The total appointment, including check-in, positioning, and changing, is typically under 30 minutes. Unlike MRI or CT, there is no enclosed tunnel, and the scanner is quiet and open. You simply need to stay still for the duration of the measurement to ensure accurate results.

Preparation is minimal. Stop taking calcium supplements 24 hours before your appointment, as calcium residue in the digestive tract can interfere with readings. No fasting is required, and you may eat and drink normally. Wear comfortable clothing without metal zippers, buttons, or underwire. Inform our team if you have had a recent barium study or CT with contrast, as residual contrast material may affect accuracy. Remove jewellery and belts before the scan.

For routine monitoring, DEXA scans are typically repeated every 2-3 years. If you are on osteoporosis treatment such as bisphosphonates, denosumab, or teriparatide, your doctor may recommend annual scans to track treatment response. A shorter interval of 1-2 years may also be appropriate for patients on long-term corticosteroids or those with rapidly declining bone density. Your physician will recommend the optimal schedule based on your individual risk factors and treatment plan.

Yes, DEXA scanning is extremely safe. The radiation dose is approximately 0.001 mSv, which is less than 3% of a standard chest X-ray and roughly equivalent to the natural background radiation you receive in a few hours of daily life. This exceptionally low dose makes DEXA safe for repeated monitoring over many years. The scan involves no injections, no contrast dye, and no enclosed spaces. It is safe for the vast majority of patients, with the only contraindication being pregnancy.

DEXA screening is recommended for all women aged 65 and older, men aged 70 and older, postmenopausal women under 65 with risk factors such as low body weight, smoking, or family history of hip fracture, and anyone who has experienced a fragility fracture. Additionally, patients on long-term corticosteroids, those with conditions that affect bone metabolism (thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis, coeliac disease), and individuals with early menopause should be evaluated.

T-scores compare your bone density to that of a healthy 30-year-old adult at peak bone mass. A T-score above -1.0 is classified as normal bone density. A score between -1.0 and -2.5 indicates osteopenia, meaning bone density is lower than normal but not yet osteoporosis. A T-score of -2.5 or below indicates osteoporosis. Z-scores compare your density to the expected range for someone of your same age, sex, and ethnicity, and are particularly useful for premenopausal women, men under 50, and children.

Reports are typically available within 18-24 hours and are sent directly to your referring physician. Same-day reporting is available for urgent cases. Your report will include T-scores and Z-scores for each measured site (lumbar spine, femoral neck, total hip), trend comparison with previous scans if available, and a clinical interpretation with recommendations for follow-up or treatment consideration by our subspecialty radiologists.

For insurance coverage, most providers require a physician referral specifying the clinical indication. Referrals from general practitioners, gynaecologists, endocrinologists, rheumatologists, or orthopaedic specialists are accepted. If you do not have a referral, our in-house GPs can assess your risk factors and provide one, often on the same visit. Self-pay patients may book directly without a referral. We accept direct billing with over 20 insurers.